WHO REALLY OWNS THIS CAR?

THE FACTS

In 2014, Solly Phiri`s car was stolen and he opened a case at Moroka police station, Soweto.

Soon afterwards, he spotted the car at a panel beaters in Soweto and notified the police.

The police went to the panel beaters and took the car to a vehicle clearance centre.

No one was arrested as the owner of the shop was not there when police confiscated the car.

AZIKHIPHI – THAT’S NOT ON!

Mr Phiri was advised to collect the car from the vehicle clearance centre.

But when he went to collect the car he was informed that the car cannot be released to him because the police had circulated its details and discovered that the car is not his after all. It was a car that had apparently been reported stolen in Vereeniging.

STRIKE BACK LEGALLY

Scorpion Legal Protection reported the matter to the SAPS Provincial Management Interventions department in Braamfonten, Joburg.

Their investigations are at an advanced stage. Scorpion recently spoke to the investigating officer who advised us they are awaiting a report from Nissan regarding the ownership of the car. He advised Scorpion that the engine and chassis number match a car that was reported stolen in Vereeniging.

However, the car’s body belongs to another person living in Westonaria.

Once Nissan has compiled a report, a decision will be taken whether or not to return the car to Mr Phiri.

SCORPION’S CONSUMER TIP

Before buying a car, consumers must ensure that the seller is the registered owner of the vehicle they want to buy.

They must insist that the car be taken to the Automobile Association (AA) and examined. This is irrespective of whether they are buying from a dealer or from a private seller. They will receive a comprehensive report from the AA on both the mechanical soundness of the car and the ownership aspect too. The report must confirm that vital parts of the car like the engine and chassis number match the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If they don’t, don’t buy the car!