Ongoing jewelry scam prompts warning from Maui, Kauai police

HONOLULU (KHON2) — Maui Police Department and Kauai Police Department warn residents and visitors to avoid falling for an ongoing jewelry scam.

Maui officials took to their social media to warn everyone about foreign nationals traveling from Hawaii Island to Kauai running the scam.

According to police, the scammers pose as tourists and tell others they “fell victim to a theft or robbery and lost everything they had.”

They then proceed to attempt to sell victims expensive-looking jewelry at a cheaper price to gather the money they need so they can return home.

After examination by professionals, the jewelry is deemed fake.

Maui police said a similar scam was run by another group in Kahului and Makawao last year when individuals “approached people in the parking lots of businesses and shopping centers.”

“The Maui Police Department would like to discourage the public from purchasing jewelry from anyone who approaches you on the street. Reputable jewelers typically have physical locations, pop-up shops, or verified E-commerce websites when selling jewelry,” said MPD in a social media post.

Police urge people who are approached by these individuals or see suspicious activity to call (808) 244-6400 or 911 in the event of an emergency.