MEMBERS of the public are urged to be aware of a new scam operating in the Central Business District(CBD), Isipingo and Pinetown. The scam involves a “magician” performing an act and while the crowd is enthralled by the performance, their accomplices’ pickpocket the distracted crowd.
While there have been no reported cases at the Durban North SAPS, Capt Raymond Deokaran, spokesman for the Durban North SAPS, urged residents to warn domestic workers and gardeners travelling to the CBD to be vigilant.
Project Co-Ordinator from the City’s Security Management Unit (SMU), Silence Vilani said the City has deployed law enforcement officers to patrol the areas where the scam artists operate.
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“The fraudsters are dressed as traditional healers. They attract the public by making prophesises and prescribing remedial solutions to personal problems. And while the crowd watch their performance, their accomplices rob the unsuspecting audience.
“The City will be running an awareness programme to warn the public about the con artists. The public is urged to report criminal activities to Metro Police on 031 361 0000, SAPS on 10111 or Security Management on 031 311 4701,” Vilani said.
During a raid in the Durban CBD last month, the ‘magicians’ unsuccessfully attempted to bribe officials to allow them to continue to work.
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