A MAN who tried to fare dodge while carrying a cash machine skimming device has been jailed for four months today (Wednesday).

Hapless Ivan Ilascu was spotted by police at Leyton Underground station trying to "double shuffle" through the barriers behind a paying passenger just after morning rush hour.

The 20-year-old, of no fixed abode, was arrested by the British Transport Police officers on suspicion of fare evasion when he refused to give his name and address.

Det Sgt Gabriel Oresajo said: "After searching Ilascu at the scene, the officers then found what appeared to be a skimming device hidden inside his jacket and he was further arrested on suspicion of possession of an article for use in fraud.

Detectives in BTP's specialist credit card unit examined the device and confirmed it as a skimming device with a miniature camera that could have been used to record peoples' PIN numbers at cash and ticket machines.

DS Oresajo added: "I hope the prison sentence handed down to Ilascu send out a strong message that BTP investigators are actively interrupting fraud and arresting offenders."

Ilascu was sentenced for possession of an article for use in fraud at Waltham Forest Magistrates Court in Forest Road, Walthamstow, last Thursday (March 20).