Two Dunedin businesses have lost thousands of dollars to a gang of fraudsters targeting Dunedin's Chinese business community, police say.
Police believe the offenders are of Chinese descent and aged between 40 and 75 years.
Among the fraud schemes used is approaching the owners of takeaway shops with a business proposition. The victims are then drawn into further contact with the fraudsters.
Police, who say at least two business owners have lost thousands of dollars as a result of getting involved, are working with the Chinese community to warn local business owners of the scam.
"We are keen to warn business owners about the activities of this group but also would like to hear from any other business owners who might have been approached by people offering similar deals," says Detective Neville Aiken.
Police don't believe the group is local but lives elsewhere in New Zealand or overseas.
Anyone with information can contact Detective Neville Aiken on 03 471-4800. Information can also be provided anonymously to the organisation Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
