In response to several cases of fraud registered at Edenvale Police Station, a warning was issued in the hopes of preventing further incidents.
The warning comes after several cases related to the buying of puppies online were recently opened at the station.
“We appeal to our community not to buy pets online, investigations are underway since several cases have been registered,” said Edenvale SAPS spokesperson Sgt Jacob Mashile.
“At this stage, investigators believe it is a syndicate taking advantage of community members who are hoping to buy a puppy.”
Mashile said because of the nature of the cases he could not disclose how many cases were reported.
He provided the following advice to try to prevent similar crimes:
• Unless you can physically see, feel and touch the pet stay away from the offer.
• Do your research, seek out registered and reputable animal rescue shelters instead of looking for a pet from an advert.
• Be vigilant and wary, scammers will invest time and resources to make themselves seem credible.
• Set up a disposable email address that you can use to communicate with sellers.
• Research the seller’s contact details, physical address, email and any other information provided.
• If the seller claims to be in an area but is suddenly in another area when you ask if you can see the pet, it is a warning that you should reconsider doing business with them.
• Don’t share any private details with the seller.
• If you feel unsafe ask to do the purchase at a public place like a shopping centre or police station.
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