CHICAGO — Authorities in Chicago are offering a warning to residents across the city after several people were robbed during fake social media marketplace sales.
According to Chicago police, during each robbery, the perpetrators listed an item for sale on a social media marketplace and instructed the buyer to meet a specific location, but when the buyer arrived they were confronted by a group of armed thieves who stole their belongings.
Chicago police did not provide specific details on what social media marketplace was being used by the thieves.
Officers said they believe the crimes were conducted by a group of two to six people ranging in age from 15 to 35. The offenders all stood between 5-foot-6 and 6-foot-1 and were spotted wearing dark clothing with hoodies.
At least one of the individuals responsible is believed to have dreadlocks or a braided hairstyle, police said.
Police want to remind the public that a local police station is a safe location to meet up for social media marketplace transactions.
Authorities warn the public never to pursue a fleeing assailant and instead work to remember any unique physical characteristics of the offenders.
Police say those who fall victim or witness a crime should call 911 immediately and provide authorities with a detailed description of the offenders.
Anyone with information on the robberies is asked to contact police.
Those with information that could help detectives in their investigation can also leave a tip at CPDtip.com. Tips can be filed anonymously.