Two suspected fraudsters have been arrested in Observatory for their alleged attempt to defraud someone through a suspected Facebook Marketplace scam.

Officers attached to the SAPS Drone Unit were alerted to the possible fraud incident at Riverlands Mall on Monday.

The suspects are said to have posed as prospective buyers for a camera, but the seller suspected fraudulent activity when the R29,000 payment for the camera did not reflect in his bank account, despite receiving a notification of an immediate payment.

“The complainant explained that he had advertised a camera for sale on Facebook Marketplace and had arranged to hand it over to prospective buyers after receiving notification of an immediate payment of R29 000. However, the money did not reflect in his bank account, raising suspicions that the payment was fraudulent,” said Western Cape SAPS spokesperson Colonel Andre Traut.

Traut said the suspects were detained at Woodstock police station, where the complainant opened a case of attempted fraud.

While the suspects were being profiled, they were found to be possible suspects in similar incidents before. 

“Further checks allegedly linked both men to an existing fraud case registered at Milnerton SAPS. Information obtained during the investigation also linked the suspects to other alleged incidents in which three previous victims had reportedly been scammed,” noted Traut.

The duo was arrested on charges of fraud, and their cellphones were confiscated for further investigation.

The Western Cape SAPS took this opportunity to remind the public to be vigilant when buying or selling goods via social media, noting that scammers can trick people with fraudulent proof of payment or instant payment notifications.

“A payment notification, screenshot or proof of payment is not confirmation that money has been received. Sellers are urged to independently verify that funds reflect in their bank accounts before handing over goods, regardless of how convincing the buyer’s proof of payment may appear,” said Traut.

He also asked that the public keep records of these types of transactions when suspected incidents are reported to police.

“Members of the public are further encouraged to keep records of online transactions, including messages, contact details and proof of communication, and to report suspected fraud to their nearest police station. Buyers and sellers should exercise caution when dealing with unknown individuals and avoid allowing pressure or urgency to influence their decisions.”

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The SAPS further commended the officers and private security personnel at the mall for their swift response to this incident.