The Port Elizabeth Vehicle Crime Investigating Unit (VCIU) arrested a wanted suspect Samuel Chitja (60) for fraud and theft of motor vehicle.
Police acted on information received of the possible whereabouts of the suspect and during the early hours of Tuesday morning a search warrant was executed at a house in Matsha street, Kwazakele.
Police Spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg says the man has many aliases, various modus operandi's and is possibly operating in other provinces.
She says it is alleged that on the 24th of October 2018, the suspect approached a dealer in Cape Road, Newton Park and enquired about a Ford Ranger.
He requested a quote and made contact with the salesman several times.
The accused alleged that he was waiting for money to be cleared from a Trust Fund and then produced documents so that the sale could be finalised.
In November he produced a bank document, verifying proof of payment, and the vehicle valued at R453 490 was released to him.
Janse Van Rensburg says the dealership only realised 48 hours later that there was no money and also no trust fund.
In February this year, it is alleged that the same suspect approached a dealership in Uitenhage where he showed interest in a Renault Sandero.
He requested a test drive to Greenacres, to show the car to a relative who was interested.
Janse van Rensburg says after they drove to Greenacres the man suggested they go for coffee, and whilst having coffee the suspect received a call on his phone and went outside.
He disappeared with the vehicle valued at R180 000 and was not seen again.
Police says there are several such cases opened against him in Despatch and George.
Chitja appeared briefly in the PE Magistrates Court and is remanded in custody until the 25th of March for verification of his identity.
