Bogus police make off with R10 000 after robbing man at gun-point in Silverton

A 58-year-old is recovering from a terrifying ordeal after being abducted and robbed at gunpoint near Silverton Mall recently, allegedly by two bogus police officers.

He was robbed of R10 000.

The victim, who asked to remain anonymous out of fear of further victimisation, described it as the worst day of his life.

The incident occurred after he had left the Silverton Mall on De Boulevard Street.

According to the victim, he had withdrawn R300 from an ATM after purchasing a cellphone and was on his way to visit his sister when a white Volkswagen GTI pulled up beside him.

“Two men got out, identified themselves as police officers, and showed me what looked like an appointment certificate with a photo of a police official,” he explained.

“After seeing that, I let my guard down, thinking they were real officers.”

He said the suspects showed him a disturbing image on a cellphone, people lying in pools of blood and accused him of being involved in a shooting.

“They claimed I matched the description of the shooter and insisted on taking me to the police station.”

He said he was terrified.

“I have never touched a firearm in my life. I didn’t understand what was happening,” he said.

He said that when he hesitated, the men forced him into the car, drove off, and began interrogating him. One of them pulled out a gun, demanded his bank card and PIN, and threatened his life.

“I begged them not to hurt me. I told them I’m a father and the only breadwinner for my two daughters,” the man said.

“My heart was pounding, I felt helpless, and I feared I would never see my family again.”

The suspects drove around with the victim before dropping him off on Keuning Drive.

He said before they let him go, they removed the SIM card from his phone to prevent him from receiving banking notifications.

“I discovered that over R10 000 had been stolen from my account.”

He said they used his card to purchase liquor worth R6 000 and withdrew R4 000 in cash from an ATM. Additional transactions were also made at a pharmacy.

“That money was for my family. I do casual work to survive. I don’t know how we are going to make it now, but I thank God I’m still alive,” he said.

The victim said he felt an overwhelming sense of fear and helplessness.

“My heart was pumping so fast and I was filled with uncertainty about what might happen next. I desperately tried to stay calm while fearing for my life and the thought that I might never see my loved ones again hit me hard.

“This fear and trauma will stay with me long after. I am constantly anxious.”

He said he went to Silverton Police Station to open a case.

Liezel Moller from the Community Policing Sub-forum said the victim’s brother-in-law notified them about the incident.

Moller said an increase in cases of bogus police operating in Silverton have been reported of late.

She warned residents to be cautious and alert at all times to avoid falling victim to this crime.

“He only knew of the transactions after getting a taxi to go back to the bank.”

She said the brother-in-law and wife took the victim to the liquor shop, where they were able to identify one of the robbers on video footage.

“They were also able to identify the robber in video footage at a Meyerspark business centre.”

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Marinda Austin said the police in Silverton are investigating a case of armed robbery.

She confirmed that the police are aware of bogus police officers operating in Silverton and warned residents to be cautious.

She said the police are waiting for the footage of the suspect from the complainant’s sister.

Austin urged residents to remain vigilant and always ask for official police identification.

“A genuine police ID will include a photograph of the officer, along with their initials, surname, and the SAPS star in the font. On the back of the card, you should see the Appointment Certificate under Section 30 of Act 68 of 1995, displaying the officer’s ID number, rank, date of appointment, and a signature from the National Commissioner.”

She said it is also important to look at the police uniform, which must include a name badge, the police star, and the rank of the officer.

“Detectives may be dressed in civilian clothes, which makes the police ID card especially crucial in confirming their identity,” she explained.

She said every legitimate police official is issued a Persal number – a unique personnel number assigned by SAPS.

“You have the right to ask for this number,” she said.

“Be cautious of imposters, as fake police officers may only wear parts of the uniform or try to intimidate you.”

Austin said residents should also verify which police station the officer is from.

“If approached by police in an unmarked vehicle, they are still required to show their ID, act professionally, and identify themselves upon request. You can ask to go to a public place or even to the police station to ensure your safety.”

She advised that real police officers will never demand money, act aggressively or refuse to identify themselves.

“As a member of the public, you have every right to ask any police official for proper identification.”

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