EDITOR – I would like to make people aware of a con-man operating in the Musgrave Road area. I myself have been approached by this man on three separate occasions (he can't seem to remember that I'm wise to his scam).
He is an African man of about 50, portly and bald. He will approach you and introduce himself as Thomas (which I believe is his real name as he showed me an ID the first time I encountered him).
Thomas will then start his sob story, asking for usually betwen R50 and R100 for 'taxi fare home'. He may ask you to phone his 'wife' on your own phone to corroborate his story. This person is an accomplice.
Thomas will then promise to meet you in the same area to repay the cash the following day. Suffice to say, he will not arrive.
Bear in mind, Thomas has been running this scam for years in the same area, along Musgrave, Essenwood and St. Thomas Roads. He can be vert convincing, perpetually looking panicked and sweating as if he truly is in a dilemma.
He is not. Do not be fooled by this man.
Travis Bickle
Durban
