SAPS warn scrap metal dealers

JOHANNESBURG SOUTH: The management of Booysens SAPS is warning scrap metal dealers in the south of Johannesburg about a group of criminals who have developed a new method to steal valuables.

According to Booysens SAPS communications officer, Warrant Officer Lorraine van Emmerik, criminals contact the dealers after their trading hours and ask them to open their gates as they have metal to sell. But when the dealers open the gates, the criminals overpower them and take certain valuable items, mainly copper and steel.

“Please be aware of this and inform your employees not to open the shops unless it is in the official working hours and there is more than one person at work,” said Lorraine.