Police warn shoppers of criminals posing as mall officials
A shopper experienced a situation that poses threats to patrons of the shopping centre.
A shopper has exposed new criminal tactics targeting shoppers at the East Point Shopping Centre.
The straightforward and no-nonsense shopper blew the lid off the criminal activities after a gang of ‘criminals’ posing as mall security officers confronted him and his wife on March 15 at the entrances near Decathlon and Pick n Pay.
The couple initially spotted the group, who appeared to be wearing ‘city security’ uniforms, harassing customers at the entrances.
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“These individuals, dressed in white and black uniform-like shirts or t-shirts, were aggressively directing and instructing customers to print out ‘free walk-in tickets’ at the pay station, demanding they swipe their Visa cards.
“They also prevented my wife from exiting the mall entrance with a trolley, claiming the rules have changed and no customer may exit the building with a trolley.
“I intervened, and a quarrel ensued at the entrance. One man blocked our way and harassed us while making abusive remarks.
“They gave up and we eventually left probably because the standoff drew a lot of attention from fellow mall patrons,” explained the complainant.
The insistence on swiping Visa cards, which is unnecessary, raises suspicions of this being an organised card theft operation.
“Additionally, it was alarming that East Point’s security personnel seemed unaware of, afraid of, or indifferent to the situation. This raises questions about the overall security management at the mall and warrants further investigation.
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“Because of this unsettling experience, my family and I are hesitant to return to the mall until the mall management addresses this issue properly. Their provocative behaviour has the potential to escalate into violence.”
The shopper urged the centre management to take immediate action.
East Point Shopping Centre responds
The centre management said it is aware of a recent incident involving individuals impersonating security personnel in the shopping centre.
“These individuals reportedly approached customers, fraudulently requesting them to swipe their bank cards under false pretences, attempting to scam their cards,” said East Point management.
“We are deeply concerned about this incident and are taking immediate and decisive steps to address the situation and prevent a recurrence.
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“We are engaging with the SAPS to assist in the identification and apprehension of the individuals involved. Cooperation with law enforcement remains a priority as we work to ensure the safety and security of our patrons.”
Management announced the centre will implement improved security measures, which we will inform customers about within the next month.
“We encourage customers who may have been approached or affected by this scam to report their experiences to centre management or the SAPS.
“Ensuring the safety and well-being of our customers is of utmost importance to us.”
Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
