Woman arrested for R80k fraud after targeting Bedfordview elderly
“Viewing the footage from both supermarkets we were able to see the suspect and that she was wearing her work uniform when these transactions were made."
A 19-year-old woman has been arrested for theft following a spate of card fraud cases reported at Bedfordview Police Station.
After police warned pensioners and caregivers about a syndicate targeting the elderly, Detective Constable Talifhani Ravele arrested the suspect on January 26 at her workplace.
The suspect was charged in connection with defrauding a complainant of more than R80 000.
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Ravele revealed that bank statements showed transactions from two local supermarkets in Malvern.
“Viewing the footage from both supermarkets we were able to see the suspect and that she was wearing her work uniform when these transactions were made.
“Based on the videos showed that she frequented these shops.
“Our investigation led to a restaurant in Bedfordview where her employer helped us to identify her,” explained Ravele.
“Hopefully we will be able to find other victims as well. The elderly being scammed remains a concern.
“It was really sad to see an elderly person being cleaned out and robbed of her money. It could have easily been my grandmother,” added Ravele.
He warned residents to not be too relaxed and trusting when out and about.
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“Make sure that when using your card your PIN is not visible to others.
“Also, don’t accept help from strangers and don’t share personal and confidential information over the phone, especially if someone claims to be from the bank.”
He expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, detectives Thabiso Selowa and Hlongwane KA, for their help.
