'She is wary': Senior woman's online deal turns into a dangerous ordeal

In the digital age, the convenience of online marketplaces has revolutionised the way we buy and sell goods.

We can browse countless items, find rare treasures, and make transactions from the comfort of our homes.

However, this modern method of commerce is not without its risks.


A woman in her 80s has embraced the spirit of digital marketplaces as she arranged to sell a valuable gold necklace through an online platform.

As she hoped for a straightforward transaction, she and her husband met with a potential buyer on Bell St in Rockingham at around 11 am Thursday.

Yet, their attempt to engage in the ease of online selling took a harrowing turn.


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A woman's attempt at selling a necklace online became a life-harming incident. Image Credits: Pexels/Nataliya Vaitkevich, WA Police


The situation quickly escalated as the buyer inspected the jewellery.

According to WA Police, the individual tried to flee the scene without paying for the woman's necklace.

In a desperate bid to prevent the robbery, the woman confronted the alleged thief.

Tragically, the woman fell to the ground and got struck by the man's car.

This incident resulted in facial and hand injuries.


The scene was a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking behind seemingly innocuous online deals.

St John Ambulance paramedics treated the woman at the scene before moving her to Rockingham Hospital.

Thankfully, she was released from the hospital and was reportedly in 'good spirits considering the injuries she's sustained'.

'She is very wary about selling anything on online marketplaces again,' the police added in their statement.

Police have since urged the public to be vigilant about their surroundings and the individuals they conduct transactions with, especially for online transactions.


In a fortunate turn of events, the 31-year-old suspect was located nearby and has been arrested.

He faced several charges, including aggravated robbery, possession of a prohibited drug (methylamphetamine), and possession of drug paraphernalia.

His court appearance is set for 7 March 2025 at the Perth Magistrates Court.

Authorities also appealed to locals to keep an eye out for the gold sovereign pendant and chain in the vicinity of Bell St and Griggs Way, Rockingham.

Here are some tips to help you stay secure when selling items on the internet:
  • Always meet in a public and well-lit area, preferably with CCTV surveillance.
  • Consider bringing a friend or family member along for security.
  • Inform trusted contacts about the details of the transaction, including the time and place.
  • Avoid sharing personal information with potential buyers.
  • Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it's better to cancel the deal.
  • Use secure payment methods that offer buyer and seller protection.
The digital world offers many advantages, but it's crucial to navigate it with caution.
Key Takeaways

  • A senior woman was struck by a vehicle during an alleged robbery while trying to sell a necklace.
  • The incident occurred in Rockingham, with the woman sustaining face and hand injuries.
  • Police advised the public to be cautious when conducting transactions through online marketplaces.
  • A 31-year-old man was arrested near the location of the incident and has been charged. He is due to appear at the Perth Magistrates Court in March.
Have you encountered any issues with any online transactions? Do you have tips for safe trading? We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with online marketplaces in the comments below. Let's help each other stay safe online.
 

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I would meet them in a police station, the way all parties can be verified.. before handing over money or goods
I would meet them in a police station, the way all parties can be verified.. before handing over money or goods
You would have thought she would have picked a safer place for the transaction seeing the item was so valuable.
A police staion would deter any thieves too.
 
This is the second time iv'e heard of this happening lately, one was an elderly gentleman who got beaten up and both were to meet at someone elses car on a random street somewhere. There's a red flag there immediately, why meet in a car where the driver can take off, as has happened with these two cases.
My partner does a bit of Market place shopping and has always gone to the persons house and visa versa if we are selling stuff online, touch wood we've never had a problem.
 
This is why I would never sell anything online where the buyer comes to me. Gumtree and Ebay are fine, if you know what you are doing.
My experience selling online ot pretty much non-existent because my lack of trust. I am sure there are a lot of horror stories out there where folk have been victims of buying scams.
No thanks. I'll just pass it on to the kids & grandkids. Not worth the risk.
 

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