PROJECT: COMBATTING FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE MEETUP SCAMS
- Jun 8
- 4 min read
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Following the recent arrest of four suspects by Rietgat SAPS for robbery and kidnapping linked to
a Facebook Marketplace scam in Soshanguve, this project outlines the tactics used, warning signs,
and critical safety measures the public must take when buying or selling items online. Awareness and precaution save lives.
THE CHALLENGE: ONLINE MARKETPLACES LEADING TO PHYSICAL DANGER
Scammers are no longer operating solely online.
They are using platforms like Facebook Marketplace to lure victims to physical locations where violent crimes, including robbery and kidnapping, occur.
THE INCIDENT THAT TRIGGERED THIS WARNING:
A victim saw a Facebook Marketplace advertisement for mag rims priced at R3,500.
After messaging the seller, the victim was directed to a location in Block PP1, Soshanguve.
A young man claiming to know the seller redirected the victim to a second location.
At the second location, the suspect exited the vehicle, pretending to contact the seller.
Shortly after, an armed suspect approached, forced the victim into the back seat, and three additional suspects joined, taking control of the situation.
THE OUTCOME:
Rietgat SAPS successfully arrested four suspects aged 18–25.
The suspects face charges of robbery and kidnapping.
WARNING SIGNS OF A MARKETPLACE SCAM:
1. PRICE TOO LOW: The item is priced significantly below market value (e.g., mag rims for R3,500).
2. LOCATION CHANGES: You are directed to one place, then asked to go to another.
3. THIRD-PARTY INVOLVEMENT: Someone other than the seller meets you first.
4. PRESSURE TO GO ALONE: Scammers discourage you from bringing someone.
5. VAGUE OR UNVERIFIABLE SELLER INFO: The profile is new, lacks photos, or has no history.
SAFETY PROTOCOL FOR FACEBOOK MARKETPLACE TRANSACTIONS:
BEFORE MEETING:
Inspect the seller’s profile – Look for account age, reviews, and friend activity.
Communicate only on the platform – Keep records of all messages.
Never share your home address – Always meet in a public, well-lit area.
CHOOSE A SAFE MEETING LOCATION:
Police station parking lots (many SAPS stations have designated e-commerce zones).
Busy shopping centre parking areas with CCTV and security guards.
During daylight hours only.
DURING THE MEETING:
Bring someone with you – Never go alone.
Tell a friend or family member your exact location and expected return time.
Do not carry large sums of cash – Use traceable payment methods where possible.
Keep your phone accessible – Do not leave it in the boot or glovebox.
Stay inside your vehicle until you clearly see the item and seller.
IF SOMETHING FEELS WRONG:
Trust your instinct – Leave immediately.
Do not follow a stranger to a second location for any reason.
Call SAPS if you feel threatened (10111).
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN SCAMMED OR ATTACKED:
1. Prioritise your life – Do not resist violently if armed.
2. Report immediately to your nearest SAPS station.
3. Save all digital evidence – Screenshots of the ad, messages, and the seller’s profile.
4. Report the profile to Facebook Marketplace as a scam.
5. Warn local community groups (WhatsApp, Facebook neighbourhood watch) to prevent others from falling for the same ad.
HOW TO PREPARE AND STAY SAFE – QUICK GUIDE:
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If an online deal feels risky, walk away. Your safety is worth far more than any bargain.
Stay alert, meet smart, and protect yourself and your community.
RELEVANT NEWS ARTICLE:
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Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
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