MOTHERWELL - Eastern Cape man thought he would be driving away with a car bought through Facebook Marketplace.
But instead, that sale went south when he, alongside two friends, was allegedly ambushed by armed men earlier this week.
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Sandra Janse Van Rensburg said the complainant, alongside two friends who travelled to Mdundu Street, NU6 in Motherwell, was alerted that the vehicle would be parked inside the premises.
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However, upon arrival at the property to inspect the vehicle, the three were allegedly confronted by armed men.
[They] allegedly assaulted them, robbed them of cash and cellular phones, and fled with the complainant's white Kia Sportage,” she said.
This incident has raised concerns over the dangers associated with the use of online marketplaces.
“Criminals are increasingly using online marketplaces to target unsuspecting buyers and sellers by advertising non-existent goods or arranging meetings in secluded areas where victims can be robbed,” Van Rensburg said.
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She has urged the public to follow the following precautions when conducting transactions through online marketplaces:
• Meet in public places with high visibility and pedestrian traffic.
• Avoid unfamiliar areas or private residences to view or purchase items.
• Never carry large amount 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.
• Trust your instincts and leave immediately if a situation appears suspicious.