According to Lieut Juanita Coetzer, communications officer for the Boksburg North SAPS, motor dealerships have been targeted lately, and should be warned to take extra precautions when selling cars.
“It is important to know that these criminals work in groups of two and more people who pose as potential buyers of a motor vehicle.
“Once they convince the sales person to take them out for a test drive, they then get into the vehicle and overpower the sales person outside the dealership,” says Coetzer.
“Salespersons must take note not to be alone with potential buyers when taking the vehicle for a test drive.”
Coetzer also advises sales people to be with only one other person in the car when taking the car on the road.
“Another precautionary measure would be to try making a copy of the driver’s identify document or drivers license before going on a test drive.
“Another tip is for the sales person to always try to keep an eye on the test vehicle’s key, so that it cannot be swapped for another key,” she says.
“We need the cooperation of all our motor dealership owners to combat this crime.”
