A pensioner who believed he was acting as a Good Samaritan by giving money to a beggar was robbed moments later, by the same man he had just helped.

Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications Officer, SAC Lizzy Arumugam, said the pensioner had gone to town on November 4 to collect his grant when a man approached him in the mosque parking lot in Voortrekker Street and asked him for money to buy bread.

“After giving him some money, the man returned and asked for more. While the pensioner was counting his money, the suspect grabbed the wallet from his hands and fled,” explained Arumugam.

Police arrested the suspect shortly afterwards. He has since made his first appearance in the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court.

Arumugam shared the following safety tips for those collecting their pensions:

• Keep your wallet in a secure front pocket or a zippered bag.
• If approached by a stranger asking for money, decline politely and move to a safer location.
• If someone attempts to snatch your belongings, try to draw attention by shouting for help.
• Report incidents to the police immediately and provide a clear description of the suspect.
• When possible, be accompanied by a family member or friend when collecting your pension or other payments.

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