By Obakeng Maje
Northern Cape- Police would like to warn people to be wary of their surroundings when visiting banking malls and institutions.

“As we approach the last quarter of the year, companies will start paying out bonuses to their employees, therefore proactive measures must be in place to ensure that everyone enjoys a crime free holiday. The SAPS would like to warn the public to take heed of the following tips when making a trip to the bank” colonel Priscilla Naidu.

Beware of confidence tricksters

These people usually pick out their victims leaving an ATM or bank. There are many ways which they use to con you out of your money. In some cases, money is dropped in front of the ‘victim’. The con artist would then let the victim know that he (the victim) had dropped the money. When the latter replies negatively, he is taken aside and an offer is made to share the money. The victim is then persuaded to place his money into an envelope together with the so called found money. Being the experts that they are, the unsuspecting victim is later left red faced and penniless while the con man is far gone.

People are warned not to make unnecessary conversation with strangers at ATM’s.

“Never agree to accompany strangers to quieter spots and out of the public eye.
Do not offer to assist anyone at an ATM, should anyone request assistance; politely refer them to seek assistance from inside the bank. Never offer to show anyone how to use the ATM, demonstrating with your bank card and PIN number. Should you feel uncomfortable, cancel the transaction and leave” Naidu said.

Naidu in other cases, the victim is followed from the bank and approached by two/three people. They offer to double his/her money and once again very convincingly and skillfully take the money from the victim. Some sort of business is conducted and the victim is assured that his/her money has been double. He/she is then requested to open the envelope once they are gone. When the victim opens the envelope, blank pieces of paper is found inside.

Police is appealing to the public not be naïve and believe these confidence tricksters.

There is no way that they can double your money.

“Always be alert and observant when carrying large amounts of cash. Should you feel uncomfortable with a stranger, divert your route into a busy area or alert other people if the person is persistent” she said.

Avoid parking your vehicle far from the bank/ATM. Try to park as close as possible so as to reduce the risk of being robbed… Take note of your surroundings when getting into your vehicle. Never leave large amounts of cash in the cubbyhole of an unattended vehicle. If you suspect that you are being followed, rather drive to a police station or divert your route but never get out of the vehicle.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash on your person as people are always watching when the wallet or purse is taken out.

“Let us work together and be proactive in safeguarding our possessions thus minimizing the risk of becoming yet another statistic of crime” concludes Naidu.-TDN
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