The Nagaland Police have issued a public advisory regarding growing threat of second-hand car syndicates operating in neighboring states, particularly affecting buyers in the border districts of Nagaland.
These syndicates have been engaged in fraudulent activities that pose significant risks to unsuspecting car buyers.
According to the advisory, the modus operandi of these syndicates involves several deceptive practices. In most cases, police said that many vehicles sold by these syndicates are fitted with GPS trackers. Once sold, an FIR is registered, and the vehicle’s location is tracked, allowing the syndicate to recover the car without the buyer’s knowledge.
In some instances, only a single ignition key is provided to the buyer. With the GPS tracker, the syndicate members can locate and take back the car without the knowledge of the owner.
Police cautioned that syndicates often supply falsified/forged documents such as fake Registration Certificates (RCs), insurance papers, and ownership transfer records to deceive the buyer.
Police, therefore, urged the public to take precautions when purchasing second-hand vehicles. In this regard, buyers have been advised to always verify the authenticity of vehicle documents with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Insist on valid identity proof from the seller (Aadhar, PAN, etc. Deal only with authorized dealerships or individuals with verifiable credentials and insist on a formal sale deed in the presence of at least two witnesses.
It advised making payments via traceable online banking or digital means. Whenever possible, ask for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the RTO and the police station where the vehicle is registered. To immediately report any suspicious activity or deals to local police stations.
Police urged the public to be vigilant and cautious when purchasing second-hand vehicles from unverified sources, especially those based in neighboring states or online platforms. Police said that these syndicates are taking advantage of the public’s lack of awareness, and is crucial to remain vigilant to avoid falling victim to these fraudulent schemes.