Police are appealing to members of the public who use social media and websites to sell items to take precautions and be vigilant when doing so.
Create a free account to read this article
or signup to continue reading
Brisbane police have identified a trend that has seen people who have been selling things online being robbed.
It appeared that offenders were taking advantage of the uptake in online selling by making contact with the seller, attending their home or another location, stealing the item and then assaulting the seller.
In some instances, firearms have been produced.
Property stolen included motor vehicles, electronic devices such as mobile phones and other items of value.
North Brisbane District crime prevention unit officer-in-charge Senior Sergeant Steve Waterson urged sellers to be vigilant.
“Always be careful when providing personal details to someone online and practice personal safety by trusting your instincts,” he said.
“Have buyers view items at a reasonable time of day, have someone else with you when meeting a buyer and also ask for identification prior to vehicles being taken for a test drive or inspection.”
For further information on personal safety: police.qld.gov.au/programs/cscp/personalSafety/adults/Corepersonalsafetystrategies.htm
