SAPS issues warning after Facebook Marketplace carjacking
· The South African
Users selling goods and services via Facebook Marketplace have been cautioned by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
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It comes after a carjacking and armed robbery linked to a Facebook Marketplace transaction in Motherwell.
The victims drove to the alleged perpetrators to view a car. But once at the location, the victims were allegedly assaulted and robbed.
Then, in a cruel twist, the victims had their own car hijacked.
Facebook Marketplace crime
The buyers, and later victims, thought that they were going to view a car.
According to SAPS, the victims arrived on the scene early Wednesday morning.
They were then corralled into a garden where the car was parked.
Soon they found themselves surrounded by armed suspects.
The victims were robbed of their money and cellphones before having their own Kia Sportage taken by people they thought were selling them a car.
The police warn that criminals are using platforms like Facebook marketplace for crimes of this nature.
Their method is to lure unsuspecting victims into secluded areas by advertising goods they do not have.
Facebook marketplace scams in South Africa
In 2024, Aaron and Kyle Alberts were murdered after approaching a home in Motherwell outside Gqeberha on Saturday, 6 April.
The two thought that they were purchasing a TV found on Facebook Marketplace.
Police at the time also warned that goods, including vehicles, which are advertised well below their normal market value are one of the key methods criminals use to lure potential victimes.
Take precaution
SAPS urges the public to take the following precautions when conducting transactions through online marketplaces:
- Meet in public places with high visibility and pedestrian traffic.
- Avoid travelling to unfamiliar areas or private residences to view or purchase items.
- Never carry large amounts of cash to a transaction.
- Consider meeting at a police station or another secure public venue.
- Do not enter homes, garages, yards or secluded locations to inspect items.
- Inform a family member or friend of your destination and expected return time.
- Verify the identity and contact details of the person you are meeting.
- Be wary of deals that appear significantly cheaper than market value.
- When selling items, avoid inviting strangers to your home and arrange meetings in safe public locations instead.
- Trust your instincts and leave immediately if a situation appears suspicious.