Police in Bellville have issued a warning to commuters to keep their possessions safe when walking around the public transport interchange.
According to WO Gawie Hawkins, spokesperson of the Bellville Police Station, many people get off trains or taxis and then use their phones to Whatsapp someone or book an e-hailing service.
Thieves use this opportunity to pounce while these unsuspecting commuters focus on their phones.
“It’s something all of us do, but make sure you’re extra cautious in that moment. Stand with your back against a wall when using a phone.”
Hawkins says in most cases victims can’t remember the basic details about the thieves – whether they’re male or female or which race they are. To make matters worse, the perpetrators often wear hooded tops. These descriptions help police in their investigations.
“We’ve had quite a few of these cases over the past few weeks,” says Hawkins.
The police aren’t certain whether it is one individual or a group of individuals who are responsible.
Call 10111 with any information.
