KZN man shares update about his stolen car
This vehicle owner shared his story on social media in November 2024 when his car was taken from a fitment centre without his knowledge. Now, in 2025, he provides an update.
Last November (2024), a man from KwaZulu Natal, Hansel, shared how he was part of a scam in which criminals watched customers leaving their vehicles at carwashes, fitment or service centres, and car dealerships.
A previous Jacaranda FM report revealed that he booked his vehicle at a fitment service centre in Pinetown. He left his car at the centre, and later returned to collect it. However, he was told that his vehicle was handed over to the person he sent through to collect.
As it turned out, a store manager received a call from someone posing as Hansel, the actual owner of the vehicle. The scammer then informed the manager that he would be sending someone to collect the car, and the fitment centre allegedly allowed this to happen without practising any verification process.
Watch his initial video from TikTok below.
@empiredefenseforce Safety awareness. Don't be a victim. #EMPIREDEFENSEFORCE #EDF #armedprotection #selfdefense #PROTECTYOURSELF #vvipprotection #vipprotection #businessprotection #assetprotection #firearmtraining #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #fyp #durban #durbantiktok #crime ♬ original sound - Empire Defense Force
After posting the first video, many people asked for an update. This week, he posted an updated video sharing what was happening with the matter.
Hansel revealed that the fitment centre informed him they were following a process to conduct a "comprehensive forensic investigation." He accused the fitment centre of failing to show remorse over their alleged negligent behaviour and added that he was disappointed.
Hansel also said he visited the brand's fitment centre in another location and had a different experience. The processes and procedures were well organised. When he booked his vehicle into their centre, he received a secure verification pin and an email.
Watch the video below - courtesy of TikTok.
@empiredefenseforce Replying to @daphnefirmin Here’s a quick update on my stolen BMW X5 from Tiger Wheel & Tyre Pinetown! @Tiger Wheel & Tyre @Supa Quick ♬ original sound - Empire Defense Force
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Image Courtesy of TikTok