The Cleveland SAPS urged the community to be extra vigilant when using ATMs.
According to the Cleveland SAPS communications officer, Constable Mpho Mashakane, there is a growing trend where bank cards are stolen while owners are busy using an ATM.
“The members of this group scatter to different ATMs. One pretends to be busy at the ATM. After he is done, he comes back, interrupting someone else who is using the ATM. He asks to print or take his slip. He interferes with the process and then leaves. The one behind you pretends to help you. That is when they steal your card,” said Const Mashakane.
According to her, the group operates in different malls, including the Park Meadows Shopping Centre in Kensington.
She urged residents to report any suspicious activity at an ATM.
“Once you notice something suspicious, do not use that ATM. Call the bank officials, without leaving the ATM, or call the police or mall security,” she said.
Const Mashakane said most of the time, money is withdrawn within a moments after the cards are stolen.
She said anyone with information regarding the suspects can contact the Cleveland SAPS on 011 677-5745.
