Hay purchasing fraud

Saskatchewan RCMP and Live Stock Services Saskatchewan have become aware of several producers in Saskatchewan who have been the victim of fraud while attempting to purchase hay.

This message is intended to be a caution to any producers in Saskatchewan who are looking to purchase hay. Adds placed on social media and other buy/sell platforms have been posted by fraudsters who are requesting immediate payment prior to the buyer seeing the hay or being in a position to take delivery.

Several producers sent funds and then learned the seller was a scammer and did not have the hay. This is a reminder to ensure everyone take steps to ensure transactions on-line or over buy/sell platforms are conducted in a safe manner. The best practise is not to send funds, until you are in a position to confirm the product / items are legitimate and delivery has been established.

Please contact your local RCMP or Police detachment if you or anyone you know have been a victim of this type of scam.. If you have information related to this advisory please call your local RCMP Detachment or Livestock Services Saskatchewan @ 306-546-5086..

If you have information related to this advisory please call 310-RCMP for immediate response, or you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).