Police are warning people to be alert on social media for people asking for money in exchange for information about stolen property.
A series of message screenshots posted on Oamaru Buy and Sell NZ Facebook page reveal a man messaging a person, whose husband’s car had been stolen, and offering to give it back for $1400.
The man, going by the name Jimmy, said he did not steal the car, but would return it in exchange for the money, before providing a bank account number.
"Send proof [of] payment and no police anything will drop it off," the message read.
Sergeant Blair Wilkinson, of Oamaru, confirmed the pearl white Nissan Skyline was stolen in Aln St, Oamaru, between April 24 and 26.
Police were still investigating the theft.
He said there had been cases where people had been defrauded trying to recover stolen items through social media.
"We’d suggest they seek advice from police before handing over money."
