Harare — THE Zimbabwe Republic Police yesterday started auctioning 216 unclaimed cars that have been lying idle at the Vehicle Theft Squad yard in Southerton.

Police spokesperson Superintendent Andrew Phiri said police regularly sell recovered property every three months after investigations have been completed.

Other items on sale are vehicle computer boxes, car radios and spare parts.

Supt Phiri said the auction was being conducted by KM Auctions (Pvt) Ltd on behalf of the force as instructed by Police Commissioner-General Augustine Chihuri.

Police also inquire with neighbouring countries to establish ownership of

vehicles before auctioning them.

Supt Phiri said the cars, most of which had their original engine and chassis numbers tampered with, were issued with new particulars.

The vehicles on sale include BMWs, Mercedes Benz E230s, Toyota Hiaces, Nissan Pulsars, Peugeots, Nissan Sunnys, Mazda 323s, Datsun 120Ys, VWs, Renaults, Mitsubishis, Cressidas, Volvos, Nissan and Toyota trucks.

Supt Phiri appealed to members of the public who might have been victims of car theft to regularly visit the VTS to inspect recovered vehicles and assist police in their clearance.

He said those able to identify their cars during the auction should notify the authorities and the vehicles would be withdrawn from sale and investigations carried out to ascertain whether they were the real owners.

Others who might later identify their vehicles after the auction should also approach the police and would be paid the amount the car was bought for at the auction.