ACT Policing would like to remind the Canberra community to be vigilant when buying or selling valuable goods, particularly via online marketplaces.
Police are aware of a number of recent instances of theft from people buying and selling goods, such as mobile phones, via online classifieds.
Police would like to remind the public to take practical steps to ensure their personal safety as well as the security of their property when engaging in these transactions:
- Choose a well-lit public area that you are familiar with to exchange the goods, preferably somewhere CCTV is available;
- Avoid meeting in vulnerable areas, such as dark car parks, playing fields, and the other person’s home;
- Where possible, avoid meeting at your own home; and
- Take a friend or family member with you if possible.
It’s also important to have an exit strategy if a meeting doesn’t go as planned – identify an exit route, and ensure you have access to a telephone to contact police if necessary.
Anyone who has been a victim of this type of incident, or who has information about recent incidents, is urged to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website. Information can be provided anonymously.
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