Police warns Tshwane residents after increase in online scams and robberies
When the buyers arrive, they are held at gunpoint while one suspect goes and withdraws the victim’s money from an ATM.
Don’t meet up with strangers selling things online at secluded spots, Tshwane police warned residents this week.
“You might just be meeting up with members of a crime syndicate,” said police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi.
These syndicates advertise products on social media and arrange meetings with potential buyers.
When the buyer arrives, they are held at gunpoint while one suspect goes and withdraws the victim’s money from an ATM.
10 MEN TRIED TO WITHDRAW MONEY
This warning comes after a police operation on June 22 saved a resident from becoming a victim of such a scam.
According to Nevhuhulwi, a group of 10 men tried to withdraw money from the resident’s account.
As part of the operation, police observed and followed one of the suspects after withdrawing money from the would-be victim’s account.
“The 10 suspects were arrested and charged with armed robbery,” said Nevhuhulwi.
13 MORE SUSPECTS ARRESTED FOR ONLINE SCAMS
“On June 23, the team continued with the intelligence operation, which led them to arrest 13 more suspects that have been scamming people online and robbing them.”
The team recovered two firearms, R5 live ammunition, 9mm firearm ammunition, and two vehicles suspected to be used in the commission of these crimes.
“All arrested suspects are expected to appear before court soon on charges of armed robbery and possession of unlicensed firearms.”
Police warned residents there had been an increase in the number of people falling victim to such scams on social media, especially in the Winterveldt, Loate and Rietgat policing precincts.
23 SUSPECTS
Thus far, 23 suspects have been arrested by the police in the Tshwane district through this intelligence-driven operation under the command of Colonel Mphepu Mashau.
Gauteng police commissioner Lieutenant-General Elias Mawela commended the team for their efforts and dedication in arresting the suspects.
“The internet has become a platform for criminals to target unsuspecting victims, especially those using e-hailing services and selling or buying products on social media, particularly Facebook Marketplace,” he said.
Mawela warned residents to always be vigilant and smart when using such platforms.
SAFETY TIPS TO AVOID BEING SCAMMED ONLINE:
Avoid communicating with buyers or sellers outside Facebook.
Don’t share your personal information, such as banking details.
– If you are meeting a buyer or seller in person
- arrange to meet in a public and well-lit area or at the nearest police station.
– Do more research on the buyer or seller by visiting their private Facebook profile
- a red flag is raised when his or her profile was recently created.
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