Four cases of fraud linked to this person have been opened at the Benoni Police Station since 2010.
According to Capt Nomsa Sekele, Benoni SAPS spokesperson, it is alleged that the man, who is believed to be in his 50s, has robbed people who advertise goods on the internet.
“The man uses a South African identity document, but uses a different name and surname to commit the crimes,” said Sekele.
He uses names such as Martin Maphosa, Walter Pale, Wayne Freezer and Richard Kunene.
Sekele said in the latest incident, a motorbike was advertised on a free online marketing site.
“[The suspect] contacted the seller of the motorbike to propose a reduced price as he was interested in buying,” said Sekele.
“The transaction was done as per agreement; the perpetrator insisted the goods must not be released until the seller has seen the money reflected in his account.
“Later that day, the seller saw a message on his phone alerting him that the money had been deposited into his account via EFT.”
The spokesperson added that a few minutes after the transaction, an unknown man believed to be the suspect’s accomplice, arrived at the seller’s place of residence.
“The driver of a stolen KIA bakkie collected the motorbike,” the spokesperson said.
“The seller later realised no money had been deposited into his account.”
Police are warning the public to be more careful when purchasing goods on the internet as there are a lot of scams.
Also read: Police on the tail of Cell C robbers
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