DCI Exposes How Thieves Use BnB Dates, Fake Deals to Steal Cars

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has warned motorists about emerging tactics being used by car theft syndicates to gain access to vehicles and steal them.

In an update on Monday, October 5, the DCI noted that what may appear to be an ordinary social encounter or business opportunity can sometimes be used as a trap targeting unsuspecting motorists.

"In a growing trend of sophisticated car thefts targeting innocent motorists, car thieves are becoming more sophisticated," the agency said.

According to the DCI, criminals are increasingly using different approaches to get close to vehicle owners, gain their confidence and eventually take control of their cars.

The agency cited car hire scams, date bait and 'mchele babes'among the tactics being used by criminals to target motorists.

It also warned about fake buyers, fake importers, fake passengers and bogus business deals, where criminals may use seemingly legitimate transactions to lure vehicle owners into vulnerable situations.

Social media meet-ups have also emerged as another avenue through which suspects can establish contact with motorists before executing their plans.

The DCI further listed fake breakdowns and staged accidents among the methods criminals may use to stop or distract motorists. 

Parking-side interference and other distraction traps can similarly be used to create an opportunity to access a vehicle.

The agency also warned motorists about fake tow operators and vehicle tampering, as well as keyless and relay theft, which can allow criminals to target vehicles without relying on conventional methods.

The DCI said that although the methods and faces involved may change, the objective of the syndicates remains the same.

"The intention remains the same: get close, gain your trust, take your car," the agency added.

This comes days after the DCI warned members of the public against falling victim to fraudulent schemes involving forex trading, cryptocurrency, and other forms of digital financial scams.

In an update on Monday, September 28, the agency cautioned that some individuals use social media to display lavish lifestyles and purported profits as a way of attracting unsuspecting members of the public into fraudulent investment schemes.

"We are live with this story of Masharp Boys/Girls. These people live deep inside a world of Forex storms, Crypto shadows, Arbitrage games, sure-bet betting, Trading, Glowing Wallets, Telegram signals and the almighty USD that remains the real flex," the update read.

The DCI further raised concerns over the display of what appears to be large profits on online dashboards, noting that such displays can be used to create an impression of financial success and attract potential victims.

"Dashboards are usually blazing with phantom profit. Like really, who does show off? Even you, do you announce your salary online? Meanwhile, their lifestyle drips premium cognac, Belair Rosé showers, thick Shisha fog, cash stacks, luxury cars (mostly hired), nights out, and international trips on their profile," the update added.

According to the DCI, behind the apparent displays of wealth, some individuals are involved in criminal activities targeting people through digital platforms and deceptive financial schemes.

The agency warned that the schemes may involve fake investment platforms, phishing links, fabricated trading dashboards and wallets, identity fraud and deepfake technology.

"Yet the other side is heavy: trafficking, online scams, selling air, phishing links, fake dashboards, fake wallets, identity fraud, deepfakes and Washwash.

"They call it smart money or arbitrage, but behind some of that flex is social engineering, fake platforms and people being washed. Many fall. Others drag people down with them," the update further read.