ERMELO – A man and two accomplices targeted several businesses in town today, 9 November, stealing a phone from the Highvelder Newspaper and a laptop from Iveco.

One of the men also tried getting into a cash register at Dougies Pets and Garden Centre.

Marie van Nieuwenhuizen, who oversees the Highvelder Newspaper’s distribution, had her cellphone stolen earlier today.

A man got out of a silver Suzuki Swift that was parked close to the office and entered the Highvelder’s premises under the pretence of wanting a newspaper.

He was wearing a white Beatles shirt with pink writing, black jeans and black and white sneakers.

Without acknowledging the staff, he walked down the hallway of the Highvelder office straight towards the restroom when one of the employees asked him whether she could assist with something.

He ignored her, and turned around towards where Van Niewenhuizen was sorting newspapers.

Van Nieuwenhuizen informed him that the newspapers would only be available to the public tomorrow, as he walked to the area behind the counter where some of the newspapers were.

He then left the office.

Van Nieuwenhuizen discovered her phone had been stolen as she searched for it after he had left.

Businesses are advised to keep an eye out for these men and be vigilant as authorities warn they might be dangerous.

The registration number of their vehicle is unknown.

Kindly get in touch with the SAPS, ACSU, or SACCW if you see the vehicle or person fitting the description.