Dancing smash-and-grabbers targets Joburg motorist

Motorist Jacqui Vermaak had been driving through the intersection of Allum Road and Albertina Sisulu Drive in Bruma when she was stopped by two young men dancing in front of her car,Bedfordview Edenvale News reported.

“I read a message on my cellular phone and placed the phone on the seat next to me. One man was dancing in front of me. I heard a loud bang and saw a man trying to steal my phone off the seat. I managed to grab the man by his jacket, but I had to let go after being cut by the broken glass,” said Vermaak.

“While I was at the petrol station, a Bedfordview police vehicle arrived. Someone had told them about the incident. They did not even come and ask if I needed any help. They simply shouted that I should call the Cleveland police,” Vermaak added.

Bedfordview police spokesperson Sergeant Mduduzi Nhlabathi confirmed the matter was reported and would be investigated.

“Police officers are not supposed to run away from a person in need. Yes, the part where the incident is said to have taken place is under the Cleveland police precinct, but as police officers, we work for the South African Police Services…”

This after CCTV footage taken at a Caltex petrol station emerged showing suspects dancing around a car, seemingly to distract the driver, before opening the door and removing items from the vehicle.

Recorded on November 13, the footage showed five suspects dancing around the petrol station and asking for money while seemingly scouting for targets.

The suspects were then seen grabbing what looks like a bag and other items from the vehicle before fleeing from the service station on foot.

No arrests were made.

– Caxton News Service