Police warn of new vehicle theft scam
Crime analysts have identified an increase in armed robberies involving motor vehicles in the policing precincts of Chatsworth, Bayview, Montclair, Bellair and Malvern.
Police are urging residents, within the eThekwini Inner South Cluster, to be cautious when they log their motor vehicles for sale on car sales websites. Crime analysts have identified an increase in armed robberies involving motor vehicles in the policing precincts of Chatsworth, Bayview, Montclair, Bellair and Malvern.
“The modus operandi of two male suspects is they will approach drivers who are in the process of selling their motor vehicles. These suspects access websites and approach the seller telephonically. The suspects then agree to meet the seller at various locations where they inspect/request to test drive the vehicle. While the suspect is in possession of the vehicle, the second suspect produces a firearm depriving the seller of the vehicle as well as their personal belongings,” explained Captain J Pillay, Cluster Communications Officer for eThekwini Inner South Cluster.
Safety tips:
- Take precautions when advertisements are logged onto websites.
- When you receive a phone call from potential buyers ensure that you return the call to verify the authenticity of the buyer.
- Wait until you can confirm that the buyer is credible.
- Do not arrange to meet the buyer at a shopping mall or an isolated area. Police therefore advise that the sale takes place at your home or near a local police station for safety reasons. There should be family members be present at all times. Before the vehicle is taken for a test drive request for a copy of the driver’s licence or identity document. Ensure that the vehicle registration of the purchaser’s vehicle is also obtained.
If you are suspicious at any time contact the local police stations for assistance, alternatively call 10111 or Crime Stop 0860 10111.
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