Victims of crime warned about fraudsters masquerading as police officers
The scammers are contacting victims and demanding cash in exchange for their stolen property to be returned.
Brakpan SAPS strongly condemns the ongoing fraud activities of at least two men, who telephonically contact victims of hijackings and stolen motor vehicles pretending to be police officers and then request money from the victims.
The fraudsters also phone the local police station and request information from unsuspecting police members about opened hijacking and stolen motor vehicle cases.
“There is a male fraudster pretending to be a police officer, phoning victims, and telling them he is Colonel Booysens from Brakpan.
“He will then inform the victim that their property has been recovered and they need to deposit a certain amount in order to receive the goods,” said Constable Audrey Buthelezi, Brakpan SAPS communications officer.
“Another fraudster says he is Captain Tumelo Moerate.
“Brakpan SAPS has never had, and still do not have, the above-mentioned members on their database, which confirms that they are not SAPS members.”
Buthelezi urged the public to be alert and report these fraudsters to the nearest police station immediately.
“Victims of crimes reported to the police and have cases registered are requested to take note of the trending fraud activities and to never give anyone money,” she said.
“A police member or an investigating officer will never request money or any form of reward in exchange for recovered stolen goods from victims of crime.”
Brakpan police have distanced themselves from the fraudsters’ actions.
“The SAPS will investigate and arrest anyone found in the wrong. Members of the community are requested to report fraud on 08600 10111,” added Buthelezi.
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