Sinoville elderly target of thieves at shopping centre

A 62-year-old Sinoville resident said her wallet was stolen from her handbag at a local shopping centre last Friday by a man and a woman.

The elderly resident, who did not want to reveal her identity, said she was robbed by a woman in a clothing store at Sinoville centre.

“I was at the centre around 14:00 and withdrew money from the ATM,” said the elderly resident.

“The robbers must have watched me and followed me to the clothing store.”

The elderly woman said she was approached by a man at the clothing store, near the entrance to the centre.

“He apparently wanted to buy nightwear for his wife and asked my opinion about the type and colour.

“My handbag was over my shoulder and I felt something, like someone was pulling at it, and when I turned around I saw a woman moving quickly out the door.”

The 62-year-old said she then inspected the contents of her handbag, realising her purse was gone.

“I ran out to the parking lot to chase after the thief,” she said.

“Bystanders outside told me they had seen the woman and the man, who distracted me, fleeing with another man in a maroon City Golf.”

The elderly woman said she was shocked and angry after the incident.

“The thieves are out to rob us old people and I want to warn as many people as possible about the dangers at the centre.

According to Sinoville centre’s management, security has been tightened considerably months prior to this incident.

“All our security and car guards have been screened and there is also a security guard stationed near the ATMs to ensure the safety of our customers,” centre management told Rekord.

“We request that any incidents of theft be reported to security and centre management.”

Sinoville police spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk said people, especially the elderly, can protect themselves from theft by being vigilant at any mall at all times.

“Older people in particular are often seen as ‘soft targets’ and need to be vigilant and aware of people around them at a shopping centre.”

Van Dyk said people should not think that because shopping centres have security guards, personal security measures should be ignored.

“Be careful when withdrawing money at an ATM. If someone is too close, ask him or her to move away; and if they do not adhere, shout for security.

“Do not count your money at the ATM. Put your money in your wallet quickly and move on.”

Van Dyk urged women to keep their handbags closed and keep them in front of them, especially in busy shopping malls.

“Do not allow strangers to distract you with small talk. Refer them to the shop assistants and always be aware of who is behind or near you and that your personal belongings are in sight at all times.”

Van Dyk also urged people to report thefts and other crimes “no matter how small” at the nearest police station.

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