A silver lining is considered a good sign when troubles loom – but it has been just the opposite for some North Coast businesses this year.
A criminal gang has been using an ingenious, if simple, method to steal expensive electronics from stores, while going undetected for months.
Umhlali SAPS spokesperson captain Vinny Pillay said electronics stores have had products stolen, but could not work out how the thieves managed to bypass the sensors when leaving the store.
Store security had been scrutinizing video footage for months to find how items like toasters, food processors and coffee machines were being stolen without anyone noticing.
Also read: ‘Tenants’ break into Zimbali home
Eventually they realised that items were going missing after a group of three people – a man and two women – visited stores at the same time.
On arresting the male member of the group last week, security realised that the shopping bags he was carrying had a special home-made lining which prevented sensors from picking up on stolen items.
“The lining is made up of a special foil and tape, which is placed within a big bag. These ensure that the sensor does not activate,” said Pillay. The women escaped.
“Now that we know what was being done, security checkpoints, police presence, and sensors are improving in all the stores.”
WATCH: Umhlali SAPS officers explain a new modus operandi that criminals are using to steal expensive electronics out of major Ballito retail outlets.
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