CCTV appeal after man blackmailed into purchasing high value goods

Detectives have issued a CCTV image of a man who could assist with their enquiries after a man was blackmailed and threatened with violence to purchase mobile phones and a MacBook.

Between 12.30pm and 3.10pm on Sunday 28 November the victim met two men outside Yates pub by Queens Square bus station after answering a message on Instagram purporting to be a job advert.

The 21-year-old victim from Sefton was then threatened and coerced into purchasing four iPhones on credit at different shops in the city centre, which the suspects took from him.

He was then told to drive to Aintree Retail Park to purchase a MacBook.

A 25-year-old man from Maghull attended a voluntary interview at a police station.

They have now released a CCTV image of a man they believe could assist their enquiries into the incident.

Detective Inspector Ben Dyer said: “This was a nasty and awful experience for the victim to go through. He felt threatened and in fear if he didn’t comply with their demands.

“It is a particularly despicable as the suspects were targeting people looking for employment, who could be vulnerable.

“With a heavy £9,000 debt weighing on him, it wasn’t until a month alter that the victim finally told someone about the incident and it was then reported to police.”

Detective Inspector Ben Dyer added:  “This incident began outside Yates pub at Queens Square bus station and he was escorted to different retail shops in the city centre to purchase the goods.

“If you were in the vicinity at the time and noticed this suspicious activity, then please let us know.

"I am also appealing to the person featured in this image, or anyone who recognises him to come forward. We believe he could hold information that could be vital to our continuing enquiries.”

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook with reference 21000887536.
 
You can also pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or their online form at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/forms/give-information-anonymously.