Randburg police would like to issue a warning to the community not to fall prey to scammers after a recent incident involving suspects posing as police officers.
Randburg police spokesperson Captain Makgowanyana Maja said a community member nearly lost all of his money in a scam that targeted people who have reported stolen vehicles.
After reporting their vehicles stolen, some victims have received calls telling them that their vehicles have been recovered by the police, but need to pay before their vehicle can be released.
“We are warning our community members that the police will never charge for the recovery of a stolen vehicle, and if a person claims that they need a cash payment to release the vehicle, it is most likely a scam.
“Do not entertain the story being told by scammers, a victim must report the matter to their nearest police station or the detective who is handling the case. Your communication channel is with the investigating officer on your SMS you received when lodging the complaint, or call your nearest police station for clarification. It is even more advisable to visit the police station,” said Maja.
This is the procedure that will take place by the police when investigating and/or recovering a stolen vehicle:
- After opening the case, the person who is the complainant or the lawful owner of the vehicle will be contacted by the detective who is handling the case if they have any info about it.
- If their car is recovered, the complainant will be informed and asked to go and identify their vehicle.
- The owner of the vehicle must have their identity document and ownership papers to prove the car belongs to them.
- There is a recovery statement that needs to be obtained before the car can be handed over to its lawful owner.
- No money or fee needs to be paid for the owner to get back their vehicle.
