The new digital age provides a plethora of new opportunities for small businesses, but criminals are also taking advantage of this fantastic opportunity. A couple’s joy at purchasing a tour that would take them through the streets and cities of Colombia was tainted by a scam. Maciel Liriano and her husband, Jhorman Jesus Martinez Fernández, met with Listin Diario reporters yesterday to discuss the alleged crime committed by the company Almeno SRL, which published and sold tourist “dreams” in various countries, with 64 people affected.
“My husband’s and my anniversary trip did not take place because of these scammers,” they claimed. Liriano explained that in April 2022, she purchased a travel package with her partner to celebrate the anniversary of their marriage union in Colombia, which would be in October 2022. The company “Almend S.R.L.” owned by Franklin Almonte offered him a vacation package to Medellin for $836, which included lodging, flight, and transportation.
In terms of money, the young lady explained that it was divided into three stages. “In the first one, I gave him a little less than half of the package to reserve it, then in May, my partner personally went to the office and made the second payment, and the last one in September.” Liriano stated that the company had not yet confirmed the flight, accommodations, and other details for the “big day” a few days before.