Two people are facing kidnapping, theft and assault charges after a Facebook marketplace meet-up in the Auckland suburb of Wesley went wrong.
The victim had arranged to purchase a vehicle through Facebook marketplace, and meet the seller outside an address on Holdsworth Avenue.
Upon arrival, the victim was allegedly assaulted by two men who also demanded he hand over money.
Auckland City Crime Squad Detective Senior Sergeant Rebecca Kirk said the victim was then made to get into the alleged offender’s vehicle and withdraw more money from an ATM in Stoddard Rd.
“The victim was then taken to another ATM before the offenders left in a vehicle.
“The victim has contacted police immediately and at about 11.40pm officers located the vehicle abandoned on Emily Place,” she said.
Kirk said inquiries showed the occupants of the vehicle had checked into a nearby hotel.
“The alleged offenders have then exited the room, and officers have deployed a taser.”
She said both occupants, a 32-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman, were taken into custody without further issue.
Both would appear in Auckland District Court today charged with assault with intent to injure, kidnapping and theft.
Kirk said this “unlawful behaviour would not be tolerated by police or the community”.
“This is really serious offending and police are focused on ensuring the victim gets the support they need following this traumatic incident.”
Police have long warned Kiwis to be vigilant around scams related to the buying and selling platform, particularly as people purchase gifts for the festive season.
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