Huggers target students in Hatfield
A viral TikTok video has raised alarms over a disturbing crime trend where thieves hug their victims to steal phones, creating a new safety concern.
A TikTok video released by the Hatfield Community Intervention Desk (CID) has sparked concern among students after it warned of a new trend where criminals are stealing phones by hugging unsuspecting victims.
This comes after another video circulated on social media, showing a man embracing a young woman at a fast food outlet in Hatfield, only to slip her phone out of her possession during the hug.
INCIDENT CAUGHT ON CCTV IN HATFIELD PRETORIA
Please assist us in identifying the suspect seen on the video stealing a cellphone. pic.twitter.com/8ILb2i3vgo
— CrimeInSA (@sa_crime) May 14, 2025
CID Hatfield head of security, Deon van Rensburg, confirmed a spike in incidents involving students, particularly around clubs, restaurants, and other night-time hotspots.
“Criminals are now using hugs as a distraction technique,” he said.
“When you’re hugged by a stranger, make sure to keep your valuables safe – especially your phone, watch and wallet.”
Van Rensburg added that offenders often linger outside fast food joints and nightlife venues, waiting for the right moment to strike.
He urged students and young adults to avoid physical contact with strangers and report any suspicious behaviour immediately.
Hatfield, known for its dense student population due to its proximity to the University of Pretoria, falls under the jurisdiction of the Brooklyn police precinct.
The station is currently grappling with high crime rates.
According to the latest crime statistics for the fourth quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, released by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on May 23, Brooklyn remains one of the country’s worst-hit areas for several categories of crime.
The precinct, which covers 28 suburbs including Hatfield, Brooklyn, Lynnwood North, Hazelwood, Menlo Park, and Waterkloof, was ranked:
– 5th nationally for property-related crimes
– 6th for commercial crimes
– 8th for common robbery
– 9th for serious crime overall
– 10th for “theft not otherwise specified”
– 20th for non-residential burglaries
– 23rd for the overall category of community-reported crimes.
While the national report noted a slight dip in motor vehicle and motorcycle thefts during the last quarter, Brooklyn continues to lead the country in these categories.
The area’s crime complexity is amplified by its mix of high-density student residences, shopping centres, sporting venues, bars, and academic institutions, all creating opportunities for opportunistic criminals.
Residents and students are advised to remain alert, especially when moving through busy areas or socialising in public spaces.
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