Fake £4,700 Bike Sale Sparks Police Appeal in St Ives

Police are appealing for information after counterfeit cash was used to buy a motorcycle in St Ives.

The incident, which officers are investigating as fraud, took place on 23rd January.

Counterfeit Notes Used in Sale

The owner had advertised an electric off-road bike for £4,700 on Facebook Marketplace and was contacted by an interested buyer.

A man, described as being aged around 19, arrived at an agreed meeting place in the Penbeagle area of the town to collect the bike. He handed over the cash and left with the vehicle.

However, when the seller later took the money to the bank, he was told that all of the notes were counterfeit.

Bike Believed to Be Back on Sale

It is believed that the motorcycle, described as a black Sur-Ron Ultra Bee, has since been offered for sale around St Ives. Police say the buyer has removed his profile from Facebook.

Officers are now appealing for witnesses or anyone with information which may assist with their enquiries. They are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have been offered the bike for sale.

Anyone with information is asked to report it via the Force website or by calling 101, quoting crime reference 50260019206.

Information can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111.

Advice for Sellers

Members of the public are being urged to be on their guard when selling items for cash to individuals they do not know.

Advice on how to check if banknotes are genuine can be found on the Bank of England website.