Appeal for information and warning to motorists following report of attempted car scam

Officers are urging members of the public to be vigilant after an incident involving an attempted car scam in Bournemouth.

It was reported that on the evening of Friday 21 November 2025 two men attended an address in the town after they arranged to purchase a vehicle through eBay.

They took the car for a test drive and when they returned, they said the engine was smoking and told the victim there was oil in the coolant system, indicating a mechanical problem with the vehicle. They then asked to purchase the vehicle for a significantly reduced price.

The victim was suspicious so refused and the men left.

He subsequently took the car to a garage, where it was found that the oil in the coolant was not consistent with engine oil and suggested it has been put on there from an external source.

The cost of repairs for the victim was £540.

The men involved were described as being of Asian appearance and aged in their 30s. The phone number they gave appears to no longer be in use.

Detective Constable Mike White, of Dorset Police, said: “We have been carrying out enquiries into this matter and are aware of other reports of a similar nature, both previously in Dorset and elsewhere in the country.

“It is possible these individuals may be linked to an organised network and we would urge anyone selling a vehicle through online platforms to remain vigilant for any suspicious activity.

“Anyone who believes their vehicle may have been targeted in a similar way, or who has any information that might assist our enquiries, is urged to contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250179826. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.