The Sun newspaper reports that the police in Mexico City are investigating internet adverts posted by hitmen offering their services for as little as £3,000.

One post on the website, which hosts free ads for people selling home appliances and renting flats, advertises the services of an “ex-military hitman” who describes himself as “professional and discreet”.

The man promises a “job guaranteed in 10 days or less” and adds: “I have worked in Spain, only serious offers, $6,000. (£3,000)”

Another of the ads, titled “Hitman – Killer for Hire,” reads: “Problems with a certain person? Want it taken care of? Write me. I am 100 percent professional and don’t charge in advance.”

A police spokesman said authorities were taking the ads seriously, at a time when Mexican drug cartels and organised crime gangs are going ever more public with their tit-for-tat murders and leaving bodies and severed heads in streets.

As yet MessageSpace has no plans to move into this interesting market.  As yet.