Pickpocketing seems to be on the increase.
Food Lover’s Market, Scottburgh Mall, store owner, Miguel Santo, reported that they have dealt with pickpockets at least once a month for the past six months.
The store’s security guard, Mduduzi Msabala, had begun noticing what was happening.
“I took note of how these pickpockets were distracting people and blocking their way while another takes things from the person who is unaware.”
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He said that normally it was only when customers made their way to a cashier that they would discover that their wallets or other valuables had been stolen.
Two weeks ago, Mduduzi saw a suspicious-looking group of people walk into the store and kept an eye on them.
Mduduzi realised they had targeted an elderly woman and taken her purse from her handbag.
He managed to identify the culprits and the store had enough evidence against the pickpockets as they were also caught on camera footage.
Scottburgh Saps arrived and arrests were made.
“Two suspects were arrested on October 5 at Scottburgh Mall and made their first appearance on October 8. Their case was remanded for a bail application. Scottburgh Saps detectives are investigating the possibility of other cases where they may be involved in,” said Port Shepstone communications officer, Captain P Mpinge.
People are advised to remain alert at all times, as you never know when and where pickpockets might strike.
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