A routine patrol in Alberton took an unexpected turn when CPS Security members identified a suspicious-looking vehicle travelling without number plates.

The vehicle was stopped with the assistance of the EMPD CLU, and one of the occupants was immediately recognised as a suspect who had previously been arrested in connection with bank card fraud.

A search of the vehicle then uncovered mobile card payment machines concealed inside a hidden compartment behind the glove compartment.

According to CPS Security, the devices are suspected of being used in a card-scamming operation in which victims’ bank cards are obtained and transactions are processed on their accounts.

The suspects were arrested for defeating the ends of justice and were taken to Alberton SAPS, where they will be profiled and investigated for possible links to further cases.

CPS Security is urging residents who may have been affected to come forward.

“If you were a victim of any bank card scam or suspicious card activity today in the Alberton or Glenvista areas, please report the matter to SAPS and provide CPS Security with your case number,” the security company stated.

“This information”, CPS said, “may assist investigators in linking additional cases to the suspects and the card machines recovered.”

All information can be submitted anonymously via this website or call 011 024 2426.