A man accused of running a prolific Facebook Marketplace scam that allegedly netted more than $13,700 is facing a raft of charges after a nationwide police investigation.

Police say they received multiple complaints earlier this year about a Facebook Marketplace user who accepted payments from buyers but failed to send the advertised goods.

The seller is alleged to have taken money for items including electronics, fishing reels, sports merchandise, music equipment, Lego and Pokemon cards.

Detective Senior Sergeant James Kim said Operation Camrose was launched to identify and locate the alleged offender.

“Inquiries revealed that between February and August of this year, the offender had been defrauding victims through Facebook Marketplace on a daily basis,” Kim said.

“He operated under multiple identities, and his fraudulent activity spanned the North Island.”

Police allege the man pocketed more than $13,700 through the scheme.

Because of the scale of the offending, the investigation involved police districts across the country working together.

On Tuesday, investigators from the Ōrewa Tactical Crime Unit executed a search warrant at an Arkles Bay address.

A 42-year-old man was arrested and charged with 22 counts of obtaining by deception.

He also faces charges of failing to comply with obligations relating to a computer search, possession of cannabis utensils, possession of methamphetamine utensils, injuring with intent to injure, and two counts of contravening a protection order.

The man has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to reappear in the North Shore District Court on January 13, 2027.

Kim said the case highlighted the risks associated with online buy-and-sell platforms.

“These sites are a hunting ground for criminals to buy items using a fake bank transfer or sell items that don’t exist,” he said.

“We are urging those who use these platforms to do their due diligence and not exchange any money without first examining the product.”

Police are encouraging consumers to buy from trusted retailers where possible.

When purchasing through Trade Me, police recommend using the Ping payment system, which offers buyers additional protections.