Police in Carletonville have issued an urgent warning to residents to look out for thieves operating in pairs to distract unsuspecting citizens and steal their belongings.

The warning follows an incident on July 1, when a resident parked his bakkie in Kort Street, Oberholzer, to run an errand.

Upon returning to his vehicle, the man opened the passenger door to place some items on the front seat.

Closed-circuit television footage from CPI Security captured two men approaching the vehicle.

One man walked up to the driver’s side of the bakkie, while his accomplice moved swiftly toward the passenger side, pretending to be a casual passer-by.

While the first criminal engaged the resident in conversation to distract him, the accomplice quickly pulled the passenger door open and snatched the resident’s mobile phone from the seat.

Both suspects were wearing white jackets and black trousers.

A case of theft has been opened with the Carletonville Police.

A local police officer warned that residents must remain vigilant against such criminals.

Motorists are advised never to leave valuables on the passenger seat while leaving the adjacent door unlocked.

The officer added that the thieves caught on camera this week are clearly professional and will undoubtedly strike again if given the opportunity.