Bulawayo Woman Loses US$16K in Facebook Car Scam
A Bulawayo woman has been defrauded of more than US$16,000 after attempting to purchase a vehicle she found advertised on social media.
Police have opened a fraud case and launched a manhunt for the suspect, who is still at large.
Also Read: Harare Car Dealer Arrested Over US$60K Vehicle Deal Scam
Online Deal Turns Into Costly Scam
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the victim, who resides in Hillside suburb, came across an advert on Facebook offering a grey Toyota minibus for sale in a group known as Quality Import Cars.
She then contacted the seller via WhatsApp to express interest in purchasing the vehicle.
Payments Made Before Suspect Disappears
Speaking to The Chronicle, Bulawayo police deputy spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Thandekile Ndlovu, said the victim proceeded to make payments after engaging with the suspect.
“On 7 April 2026, the victim saw an advert on Facebook posted by an unknown accused person purporting to sell a grey Toyota mini bus under a social media group known as Quality Import Cars.
“She contacted the accused via WhatsApp and indicated that she was interested in purchasing the vehicle.
She then made payments totalling US$16,031. After the full agreed amount was paid, the accused started demanding more money,” she said.
Suspect Cuts Communication
Police said the deal took a turn when the suspect began requesting additional payments beyond the agreed amount. When the victim refused, the suspect allegedly became evasive before eventually switching off his phone and disappearing.
“The accused then switched off his mobile phone and became unreachable, prompting the victim to make a police report. Police appeal to members of the public to exercise caution when buying vehicles or goods through social media platforms,” Ass Insp Ndlovu added.
Police Appeal for Caution
Authorities have warned members of the public to be vigilant when conducting transactions online, particularly when dealing with unknown sellers.
Investigations into the case are ongoing as police continue efforts to track down the suspect.
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