A 22-year-old man from Cheshire and a 30-year-old man from Leicestershire have been arrested, questioned and released by Police on suspicion of committing fraud by false representation following a string of suspected rogue trader incidents on the Isle of Wight.
The duo were nabbed by Police at Wightlink’s Fishbourne terminal on 16th September when they tried to leave the Island just a short time after being confronted by members of the public at Perowne Way in Sandown. However, the ferry was turned around and returned to the terminal where Police officers boarded the ferry and escorted a number of people off, as well as removing and then seizing a 3 vans.
Following the arrest, Police launched ‘Operational Liberal’ and appealed for Islanders to come forward with information. They stated that services had been offered such as tree cutting and fascia repairs.
Investigations are continuing and as a result the 2 men have been released without charge, but remain under investigation.
Inspector Terry Clawson of Hampshire Constabulary has said that offences which target the most vulnerable people in the community will not be tolerated on the Island.
