Security companies are urging residents across Pretoria east to remain vigilant as concerns grow about criminals posing as waste pickers to scout properties and steal valuables.

While legitimate waste pickers provide an important service by collecting recyclable materials from household refuse to earn a living, community safety organisations warn that some criminals are exploiting their presence to move through neighbourhoods unnoticed.

Garsfontein CPF chairperson and Alpha Security Forum operations manager Roelie Hendriks said it is important not to unfairly target genuine waste pickers.

“Waste pickers are people who are on the fringes of society and their livelihood depends on our trash,” said Hendriks.

“The real issue is those who pretend to be waste pickers and who move along using the same camouflage. They are opportunistic petty thieves, snatching a light here and there or something more valuable that can easily be accessed lying in a yard or on a property.”

According to Hendriks, distinguishing between genuine waste pickers and criminals is often difficult.

He said criminals often carry black bags similar to those used by legitimate waste pickers, but there are noticeable behavioural differences.

“The bags seldom fill up because their focus is not on collecting recyclables. Instead, they spend more time looking around, observing residents’ movements and identifying potential opportunities for theft,” he said.

“Legitimate waste pickers usually work with a purpose. Their bags fill up as they collect recyclables, and they often sort through bins quickly before moving on to the next location. They are generally focused on gathering material before other waste pickers arrive.”

Hendriks said residents should focus on protecting their property and reporting suspicious activity.

He added that residents should avoid making assumptions based on race, appearance or socioeconomic status.

Hendriks stressed that detailed information is crucial when reporting incidents.

“Walking while black does not qualify as suspicious activity. A description of the offence, the person committing the offence and the location is vital for a good response.”

LS4 Sub-forum spokesperson Shawn Fouché shared similar concerns and encouraged residents to remain vigilant without unfairly targeting individuals who are simply trying to earn a living.

Fouché urged residents to ensure alarm systems are functioning properly, keep valuables out of sight and secure items that may be easily accessible from the street.

Community safety leaders say co-operation between residents, neighbourhood watch structures, private security companies, and law enforcement remains one of the most effective tools in preventing opportunistic crime and keeping communities safe.

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