The man surnamed Chan was charged with obtaining properties through deception and theft. He appeared in Eastern Magistrates' Courts on Friday morning.

The arrest was made by officers of the Western district crime investigation team in Wan Chai on Wednesday. During the operation officers also seized some cash and a phone.

Police said they received reports from three people between July last year and January this year, saying they were cheated of money by a man whom they met on social media and developed romantic relationships with.

The three victims wired money to the man multiple times after he claimed his business was facing a financial crisis, he needed money to pay hospital fees and to pay debts for his relatives.

The victims lost contact with the man the moment he received the money.

The man also stole a batch of electronic goods from one of the victims and the three victims lost about HK$340,000 worth of money and goods in total.

Police urged the public to stay vigilant when making friends on the internet and not to trust people they meet online easily.

If citizens encounter any suspicious activity, they are encouraged to report to police by dialing the anti-scam helpline 18222.