Dealerships conned out of four vehicles

Police are looking for an alleged conman after at least four vehicles were stolen from dealerships in Port Elizabeth, Despatch and George.

Police spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg said the suspect, aged between 50 and 60, used aliases including Mlindeli David September and Simphiwe Kahlela.

On October 24, the man inquired about a Ford Ranger Wildtrack on sale at a Cape Road, Newton Park, dealership.

“He requested a quote and made contact several times with the salesman,” she said.

The suspect then allegedly claimed that money had to be cleared from a trust fund.

“He then produced all the necessary documents so that the sale could be finalised.

“The documents, including bank statements, were false.”

Janse van Rensburg said on November 3, the man produced a bank document verifying proof of payment.

“The vehicle valued at R453,490 was released to him.

“On November 5, the dealership realised there were no funds in the account,” she said.

On February 21, the man allegedly conned a dealership in Uitenhage Road, Sydenham.

“He approached the salesman and showed interest in a 2018 Renault Sandero.

“On February 26, the suspect returned and requested to test drive the vehicle and to meet a relative who was interested in the vehicle at her workplace near Greenacres.

“They drove the vehicle to Greenacres and the suspect suggested that while waiting they should go and have coffee.

“While having coffee, the suspect allegedly received a call and informed the salesman that he was going to fetch his relative who was outside.

“That was the last the salesman saw of the suspect and the vehicle, valued at R180,000.”

Cases are also being investigated in Despatch and George.

Police warned dealerships to confirm with banks that the money was in their account before releasing any vehicle.