Businessman accused of $7M Toyota Tacoma fraud

-granted bail of $100,000

A businessman was yesterday granted bail after he was accused of defrauding his friend, of over 10 years, of items totaling over $7 million.

Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan read three charges of fraudulent conversion to Nyron Moraj, of De Abreu Street, Newtown, Kitty.

It is alleged that on February 6, at Georgetown, Moraj, who was solely entrusted by Rory Forde, with $7,086,450 to purchase a Toyota Tacoma Truck for the said Rory Forde, fraudulently converted same to his own use and benefit.

Also, between February 2 and February 15, at Georgetown, Moraj, solely entrusted by Forde, with $270,000, to purchase a pair of riding boots, a jacket, a helmet, and a pair of gloves, fraudulently converted same.

The final charge alleges that Moraj fraudulently converted $130,000, on August 15, 2016, which was entrusted to him by Forde to spray paint a Ducati Superbike.

The 25 year-old accused, pleaded not guilty to the three allegations made out against him.

Attorney Everton Lammy-Singh, in association with Glenn Hanoman, appeared on behalf of the defendant. He told the court that his client and the complainant are in the process of resolving the matter.

The court heard from Attorney Jacy Archibald, who represented Forde, that his client is desirous of being compensated and that they are in the process of resolving the matter.

According to facts presented by Police Prosecutor Deniro Jones, the complainant would have given the defendant the monies mentioned in the different charges, but Moraj failed to purchase the items or spray the bike and did not return the funds. Attempts to contact Moraj to retrieve the funds were unsuccessful.

Attorney Lammy-Singh argued, however, that it is more an issue of delay than fraud.

Nevertheless, Chief Magistrate McLennan granted the defendant $100,000 bail and ordered him to lodge his passport.

The matter will be heard again on March 15.