Puppy Breeder ********

I was looking to purchase a Beagle puppy and found this website (looks legit) called mariapetsbreedhomepupies.co.za. This also comes up as the first link when searched on Google for Beagle puppies. The owner Maria Hindle (***), who is apparently based in Kimberley, sent me pictures of the Beagle puppies she had. They were selling for R3500 each and R500 delivery charge. I selected the one called Sizy and paid a deposit. The following day I got a call from Peter who is the courier company (megaport logistics---www.megaportlogistics.com) for delivery to my address. Peter said an email has been sent to me for confirmation of delivery. He was very provisional and mentioned once I approve, the delivery and tracking number will be processed. A fee of R9100 was due to a special crate that is temperature regulated because of COVID-19. Upon delivery, R9000 will be refunded as per the email from Peter. I did the deposit and soon after there was another email requesting a further R25000 because of transportation regulations due to COVID-19. I immediately knew I have been ripped-off. When I refused, Maria the breeder was constantly pushing me to have a portion of the funds deposited and she would cover the rest. I never received my money back nor the puppy that I paid for. These people are complete ********....please do not have any dealings with them. They will take as much money as they can from you.