Two Suspects Wanted in Used Vehicle Purchase Scam

Two males are wanted by police after fraudulently claiming mechanical issues to purchase a used vehicle at a discount rate in Scugog.

In January 2026, investigators from the Financial Crimes Unit began investigating two males after receiving information they had damaged a used vehicle to buy it at a lower price.

The suspects responded to a Facebook Marketplace ad and attended the victim’s home to view the vehicle. While test‑driving it, they distracted the victim and deliberately damaged the engine by covering it with oil.

The suspects then falsely claimed the vehicle had serious mechanical problems and that the engine was ruined. Based on these false claims, they pressured the victim into selling the vehicle at a significantly reduced price.

Both suspects are also currently wanted and facing charges from several other police agencies for similar scams.

Police believe there may be other victims and are asking anyone who has information or who has been defrauded by the suspects to contact them. Photos of the suspects are attached and can be viewed at www.drps.ca.

Marius ZORILA, age 31 of Romania is wanted for: Fraud Over $5000, Mischief Over $5000, and Possess Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000.

Constantin TANASE, age 26 of Romania is wanted for: Fraud Over $5000, Mischief Over $5000, and Possess Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000.

Anyone with information about this incident or similar incidents is asked to contact A/D/Sgt. Chapman of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5352.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

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