Tshwane's intervention unit tackles online scams head-on

Tshwane’s Online Intervention Unit is turning the tide against a surge of social media scams, making major strides in exposing syndicates that prey on unsuspecting residents through fake online sales.

Tshwane District Police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said online scams are still a major issue in Winterveldt, with criminals using bogus deals to trick victims and rob them.

"Criminals are continuing to use fake online ads in the Winterveldt area in northern Tshwane with unrealistically low prices to lure victims to secluded spots. Once there, the victims are robbed of their personal belongings and vehicles."

Captain Johan van Dyk said that a special task force was created to combat the increasing social media crimes, and since then, they have achieved major success by apprehending more than 300 suspects.

"Through targeted operations including intelligence-driven deployments, routine patrols, and strategic weigh-lay actions, the unit has arrested 300 suspects, recovered 41 unlicensed firearms, and retrieved 33 stolen vehicles," he added.

Van Dyk noted that despite the crackdown, some people still fall victim to these scams, drawn in by the lure of heavily discounted goods.

Tshwane District Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine urges residents to stay alert when buying or selling online. He advises using trusted platforms and meeting only in safe, public places, ideally at police stations. He also warns against accepting sudden changes to meeting locations.

“Always use trusted platforms for online transactions and meet in secure, public places, preferably police stations. Never accept last-minute changes to meeting spots to stay safe.”

Thine also commended the intervention team for their commitment and outstanding results, particularly in the recovery of illegal firearms and stolen vehicles.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za