8 July 2002
YOU MAY BE PURCHASING A STOLEN CAR DVLNI WARNS CAR BUYERS
The DOE’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing NI (DVLNI) has today issued a warning to people purchasing second hand cars to be careful they are not stolen.
At least four cases have been identified recently in NI and others in the Republic where people have purchased what turned out to be stolen vehicles. In the NI cases sellers advertised giving only a mobile phone number, offered to bring the vehicle to a mutually convenient point such as a well-known roundabout and usually asked for payment in cash.
The vehicles purchased were cloned vehicles in that they were given the registration mark of a vehicle of identical model and make. Some vehicles also had what appeared to be genuine vehicle registration books (log books).
DVLNI investigations have identified that some had books from a batch recalled for destruction following changes to vehicle taxation classes in March 2001. Other vehicles had high quality forged registration books. The PSNI are now investigating this matter.
Brendan Magee Chief Executive of DVLNI said that anyone purchasing a used vehicle privately should take some practical steps to limit the chances of being sold a stolen vehicle.
"Check that the seller either owns the vehicle or is entitled to offer it for sale. View the vehicle at the address in the registration book. Be suspicious if the seller offers to bring the vehicle to a particular location. Be careful about paying in cash to a seller you have contacted through a mobile number. Check the vehicle identification number in the vehicle corresponds with the number in the vehicle registration book. Ask the seller for proof of identity. If you have little knowledge of vehicles bring someone with you who has some expertise. Purchasing a vehicle is probably the biggest investment after purchasing a house. Take care and do not proceed with the purchase until you are fully satisfied."
Purchasers should also be aware that vehicles for sale may be subject to unsettled hire purchase agreements and should arrange for the appropriate checks to be undertaken.
NOTES TO EDITORS:
For further information please contact Philip Maguire, DOE Information Office,
Tel 028 9054 0013, mobile 07713 652815.
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