Police investigate Facebook Marketplace incidents in Cranbrook and Torquay

Police are appealing for information after two high-value mobile phones were fraudulently taken from sellers in Cranbrook and Torquay in what officers describe as a scam targeting Facebook Marketplace users.

Devon and Cornwall Police say two phones, each worth around £800, were taken after a man arranged to buy them from private sellers. In both cases, the victims had advertised the devices for sale online.

According to officers, a man attended the sellers’ home addresses posing as a genuine buyer. 

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He allegedly asked the sellers to enter their bank details into his mobile phone in order to process payment. 

A screenshot showing what appeared to be confirmation of a bank transfer was then presented to the sellers.

However, police say no money was ever transferred, and the man left with the phones.

The suspect is believed to have driven away in a white Citroen Berlingo van.

The incidents happened in Torquay on 27 November 2025 and in Cranbrook on 19 December 2025. Officers are investigating both reports and believe they may be linked.

An image of a man officers would like to identify has been released on the Devon and Cornwall Police website. Police say the individual may be able to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone who recognises the man, or who has information that could help the investigation, is asked to contact Devon and Cornwall Police via their website or by calling 101, quoting reference 50250306097.