Call Center Agent Defrauded of $1,300 in Facebook Sofa Scam

A 24-year-old Belizean call center agent, Abi Alvarez, has been defrauded of $1,300 BZD after attempting to purchase a sofa set advertised on Facebook. The incident was reported to police on Friday, August 8.  Alvarez told authorities she saw a post for a brown leather recliner sofa set for $1,300 BZD on Tuesday, and contacted the seller, who was using the Facebook name “Ara A. Velasquez.” The seller then directed her to a man named Triston for payment arrangements.  Yesterday, Alvarez transferred the money to an Atlantic Bank account under the name Shenice Baptist. Since the transfer, Alvarez has been unable to contact “Triston” and believes she has been blocked on social media.  Further investigation by authorities revealed that Shenice Baptist is not an employee at Habet & Habet, where the account was supposedly registered. Police have taken Alvarez’ statement and the investigation is ongoing.