Lieut Nomsa Sekele, Benoni SAPS spokesperson, said this warning follows several cases of robberies which have been reported.
“It is alleged the suspects will target people who are buying clothes at various shops.
“They will approach you, start a simple conversation and tell you about someone, who is a family member or friend working in a particular shop, who can buy clothes for you at staff prices,” said Sekele.
The suspects will then ask how much money you have and if you are willing to pay for the clothes using cash.
They then tell you to wait while they bring the second accomplice, who pretends to be a staff member.
“They will ask you to hand over the money which will be used to purchase the items and you will be told to wait.
“The suspects then disappear and when you enquire at the shop, they are unknown,” said Sekele.
Women are targeted the most during such crimes.
“We are pleading with the community not to buy back door items and not to fall victim to this crime.
“Always make sure the person assisting you is indeed working at the shop and report such incidents to the police, as soon as possible.
“Always be alert and aware of your surroundings, as the suspects may be following you from an ATM,” said Sekele.
