The public are requested to be on the alert for a scam targeting people who have had their vehicle stolen.
Police spokesman, Sergeant Sibu Ncane said it has come to their attention that a person who has had their vehicle stolen receives an SMS or similar message stating that the Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU) or the police have recovered his or her vehicle and requests a stipulated amount of money be deposited in order for the vehicle to be returned.
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“This is a scam to extort money from the unsuspecting vehicle owners. Should they receive such a message, they are to immediately contact the investigating officer or nearest police station regarding the case. No payments or deposits should be made for the recovery or return of their stolen vehicles,” said Sgt Ncane.
The same modus operandi is used for persons who have opened cases of stock theft. The caller may know certain details of the case and can sound very convincing.
Payment for storage or cartage is requested in order for the recovered livestock to be returned to the owner.
“Under no circumstances will money be requested by police for investigations. The public must be alert and not entertain any sort of contact with fraudsters,” said Sgt Ncane.
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