Residents are being urged to exercise extreme caution when buying goods advertised online, after police identified Winterveldt as one of the hotspots where criminals are increasingly using online marketplaces to lure unsuspecting victims into dangerous situations.
The Tshwane SAPS issued the warning following a rise in incidents linked to social media trading platforms such as Facebook Marketplace and other online classified sites.
According to the police, criminals are posing as legitimate sellers and advertising sought-after items such as motor vehicles, cellphones, furniture, electrical appliances and other high-value goods at exceptionally low prices.
Once contact is established, prospective buyers are persuaded to travel to locations where they are told the items can be viewed or collected.
Police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said Winterveldt has emerged as an area of concern due to a growing number of incidents involving online marketplace crimes.
“Police have noted an increase in incidents where unsuspecting buyers are targeted by criminals posing as legitimate sellers.
“Of particular concern are transactions arranged in isolated areas in the northern parts of Tshwane, including areas such as Winterveldt, where criminals have used online advertisements as a means to lure victims,” said Van Dyk.
Upon arrival at the designated meeting point, victims are often robbed of cash, cellphones, vehicles, and other valuables.
In some cases, buyers are convinced to pay deposits upfront for goods that do not exist, only realising later that they have been scammed.
Van Dyk warned residents not to allow the excitement of securing a bargain to cloud their judgement.
“Criminals are constantly adapting their methods and are becoming increasingly sophisticated in the way they deceive members of the public.
“We appeal to residents to remain vigilant, trust their instincts and immediately withdraw from any transaction that appears suspicious or makes them feel unsafe,” he said.
To reduce the risk of becoming a victim, the SAPS advised buyers to verify the identity of sellers before committing to a purchase and to insist on meeting in safe, public places where other people are present.
Shopping centres, busy public venues and, where possible, police stations are recommended as safer alternatives to secluded meeting points suggested by strangers.
Police further caution against transferring money or paying deposits before physically inspecting an item and confirming that it is legitimate.
Van Dyk warned buyers not to attend meetings alone and to ensure that family members or friends are aware of their whereabouts when conducting transactions arranged online.
The warning serves as a reminder that while online marketplaces offer convenience and access to bargains, they also provide opportunities for criminals to exploit unsuspecting consumers.
Anyone who encounters suspicious online advertisements or becomes a victim of fraud, theft or robbery linked to online marketplaces is encouraged to report the matter to their nearest police station without delay.
“The safety of our communities remains a collective responsibility. By remaining cautious and taking the necessary precautions, community members can help protect themselves from becoming victims of online marketplace crime,” concluded Van Dyk.
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