Bike seller scam warning after threats of violence

Grace WoodYorkshire
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West Yorkshire Police urged people selling e-bikes and other vehicles to be cautious

Police have reiterated a warning for vehicle sellers to be vigilant after some were threatened with "violence and weapons" in Bradford.

Following a series of robberies and scams linked to e-bikes, quad bikes and motorbikes, police urged sellers in Holme Wood to report the incidents.

They said sellers had been scammed by criminals posing as prospective buyers and tricked using fake banking apps that falsely show payments had been made.

Victims had been targeted on online selling platforms and shown fake passports in some instances, with West Yorkshire Police releasing a similar warning in January.

Other offenders failed to return to the seller after a test drive, according to the force.

People selling vehicles are advised to arrange meetings in public, well-lit areas with CCTV coverage.

They should avoid cash-only transactions and to verify a buyer's identity before going ahead with a deal.

"If something feels suspicious, do not proceed and report concerns to the police," a force spokesperson said.

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