Beware of social media ‘hijackers’

It is believed that the two men then arranged to meet up at a certain location where the ‘buyer’ would inspect the vehicle before the purchase

July 11, 2021

Chrisuné Vermeulen 1 minute read

Advertising on a social platform isn’t always a safe and wise idea as more individuals become victims of crimes and scams.

In eMalahleni a resident was one of those unlucky victims when he was allegedly hijacked after advertising to sell his vehicle on Facebook.

On June 28, a trusted source told WITBANK NEWS about the latest trend doing the rounds on local social pages where people get scammed and robbed of their money and belongings.

It was alleged that the victim was contacted by a potential buyer for the vehicle he advertised.

It is believed that the two men then arranged to meet up at a certain location where the ‘buyer’ would inspect the vehicle before the purchase.

Upon meeting in person the ‘buyer’ requested a test drive and they drove off to the N12-Highway.

It is alleged that while driving along with the buyer he suddenly pulled out a firearm and demanded the owner of the vehicle to get out.

In disbelieve, the victim stared at the suspected hijacker and heard the cocking of the firearm and immediately got out of the vehicle.

It is believed that the suspect then drove off and left the victim next to the road.

A case of hijacking was opened at Witbank Police Station but no arrests have been made as the incident is still under investigation.

“People should be extra vigilant if it comes to trading and selling on social platforms as it is becoming a new way for criminals to do their business and scam people or commit crimes,” Sgt David Ratau concluded.

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