Police warn residents of bogus prophets
False prophets request victims to leave their belongings behind and send them to the store to buy salt for the prayer and prophecy. The false prophets then disappear with the victims belongings.
Pretoria central police have warned residents to be careful of a new scam whereby self-proclaimed “prophets” are robbing unsuspecting victims.
The station has recently received several complaints from victims about a group of false prophets who approached unsuspecting residents claiming they have been sent by “spirits” to warn them, according to Pretoria Central police spokesperson Constable Thabang Nkhumise.
Nkhumise said these scammers tell victims to leave their belongings (cellphones, laptops and other valuables) and send them to the store to buy salt to be used in the prayer and prophecy.
“While the victim is buying what has been requested, the prophets disappear with their belongings.
“This is quite alarming and raises a question as to why people will entrust strangers with their belongings all in the name of spiritual beliefs,” he said.
Nkhumise said residents need to take note of the following tips:
– Do not walk alone.
– Do not entrust anyone with your belongings, no matter how convincing they look.
– Refrain from easily believing strangers who you meet on the streets.
– Spiritual leaders will never request things of any form when assisting any person.
– Familiarise yourself with spiritual instructions or churches that are recognised.
Nkhumise said residents are urged to be vigilant when in suspicious situations as this new crime trend is affecting many people.
“Anyone with information about bogus false prophets or any bogus salesperson must come forth and report to the police by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or dial 112 on any network provider,” he said.
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
