Jalisco authorities report deaths and injuries from fraudulent car sales scams

In Jalisco, Mexico, violent robberies linked to fraudulent vehicle sales on social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace have resulted in three deaths and five injuries from gunfire. The State Prosecutor's Office reported a surge in these incidents over the last six weeks.

Criminals reportedly post attractive photos of cars at below-market prices to lure buyers. They then arrange meetings in secluded areas or at night, where victims are threatened and robbed. Between January and September 2026, the Prosecutor's Office documented 22 complaints related to this scheme.

Authorities have arrested eight individuals suspected of involvement with a group dedicated to these crimes. Three suspects have been formally charged and remain in pretrial detention, while five others await legal resolution. Investigations are ongoing to identify further participants.