He told the police that around the end of June 2024, he had clicked on an advert promising good returns on investments.

He initially paid €250 and was notified his investment was paying off, so he invested more, with the total exceeding €41,000.

In early July 2024, he followed a second advert for cryptocurrency investments.

An unknown person contacted him and the man transferred over €54,000 to an account, believing he was purchasing cryptocurrency.

In both cases, when he requested to withdraw his money, he was asked to pay more instead and then communication was cut off.

The police urge the public to be careful and not trust strangers promising big profits fast.

All investments, the police add, should be made through recognised advisers.