School Director Swindled Out of Rs 3.8 Million by Facebook Fraudster

A 46-year-old school director from a quaint village in the South of Mauritius has fallen victim to the alluring promises of a dream-weaver from Réunion, losing a staggering Rs 3.8 million in the process. This harrowing saga began in August 2024, when she forged a seemingly innocent friendship on Facebook with 45-year-old Joshua H., who presented himself as an entertainer at a hotel.

In a bid to facilitate their communication, she willingly shared her phone number with this man, hailing from La Possession in the northern part of Reunion island.

Just a month later, in September, Joshua made a request that would set off a chain of events leading to her financial ruin.

He asked her to transfer Rs 15,000 for the rental of an apartment in anticipation of his upcoming visit to Mauritius.

“He promised to repay me once he arrived in Mauritius,” recounted the distraught school director.

But the deception did not end there. Joshua further enticed her with the prospect of becoming business partners in the acquisition of a catamaran.

The Mauritian woman, entranced by her newfound friend’s ambitious plans, transferred money to him on 208 separate occasions, amassing a total of Rs 3.8 million via Juice/MCB to a bank account at ABSA that he had provided.

As the days turned into weeks, she remained hopeful for Joshua’s arrival, but he never materialised. Each passing day deepened her despair, as the reality of her situation began to sink in.

Disillusioned and furious, she took action on Friday, 25 April, filing a complaint at the Rose-Belle police station, demanding an investigation to track down the elusive Joshua.

This harrowing tale serves as a stark reminder of the perils of blind trust in the digital age, where the allure of friendship can mask the darkest intentions.

The school director’s experience is a cautionary tale for many, highlighting the need for vigilance and scepticism in an era where online interactions can lead to devastating consequences.

As she seeks justice, one can only hope that her story will resonate with others, urging them to tread carefully in the treacherous waters of social media relationships.

Source: Defi Media