Beware of latest scam

Date: 18 August 2016 By: Isabel Venter

The provincial communication office of the South African Police Service this week issued a warning to those people selling their vehicles on the Internet.

Reports have been received by the police about a syndicate that swindles the vehicles from the advertisers. The syndicate falsifies cell phone banking details, and then “pays” for the vehicles they are interested in. According to the police, the syndicate specifically targets vehicles advertised by companies on websites such as OLX, Gumtree and Junkmail.

In Tzaneen, three cars were recently stolen through such fraudulent activities. The suspects are two African ladies, one presenting herself as Primrose Kunupi. They drive a black Mercedes Benz or black VW Polo with a GP registration plate. “They are always well dressed and give the impression of wealth,” reads the police’s statement.

Complainants will receive an SMS from a similar number the client’s bank normally uses to correspond with them, making them believe that the money has been paid into their account. After the SMS, the client will sign over the vehicle, only to discover later that they were conned. 

Community members are also advised to avoid transactions on these types of sales after hours, on Sundays and public holidays, because it is important to get confirmation from the bank that the money has indeed been transferred before handing over a sold car.

Anyone who can assist the police with their investigation into this scam is urged to contact Capt Claassen at Tel 082 565 8265.

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Isabel Venter

Isabel joined the Zoutpansberger and Limpopo Mirror in 2009 as a reporter. She holds a BA Degree in Communication Sciences from the University of South Africa. Her beat is mainly crime and court reporting.

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