Criminals target bank customers

RESIDENTS have once again been urged to use caution when using an ATM and other bank facilities to withdraw or deposit cash.

Several incidents of card swiping and robbery have been reported in the last week, said Lt Raymond Deokaran, spokesman for the Durban North police station.

On Sunday, 15 June, a man was robbed of R37 000 at the corner of Zenith Drive and Solstice Road at 10.30am. The incident occurred after he withdrew the money at a bank in uMhlanga Ridge. The victim was ambushed by three men as he was walking back to his vehicle.

“He reported that a white BMW drove up to him and two of the men jumped out of the vehicle. One of the men drew a gun and demanded that he hand over the cash. Fearing for his life the man complied. The men jumped back into the vehicle and fled the scene,” said Deokaran.

A similar incident took place on the previous day at approximately 11.30am. A man was robbed of more than R30 000 on Ennisdale Drive.

The victim reported that he and a colleague were returning home, after drawing the money at a local bank, when they noticed a white VW Polo following them.

“The vehicle reportedly stopped in the middle of the road and two men jumped out of the vehicle and drew a gun. They also demanded the money and grabbed it from the victim’s hands. He then jumped the gunmen in an attempt to retrieve his money. While they wrestled the gunmen fired at the victims. The robbers managed to flee the scene and no one was harmed,” said Deokaran.

According to Deokaran, the perpetrators often follow the victims to and from the bank. They have ‘spotters’ inside the bank who identify potential targets for their co-perpetrators.

Card swiping has become prevalent in the Durban North area. “We receive at least two reports per week,” said Deokaran.

As a means of discouraging and preventing such incidents, the SAPS have been increasing their patrols in the vicinity of ATMs and banks.

Minimise your risk

– Authorities advise residents to avoid carrying large sums of money, and consider electronic banking, which is a safer option.

– Utilise banks and facilities with heavy traffic. Criminals prefer quiet facilities, as it enables them to crowd and intimidate their targets. Less traffic also means no witnesses and an easy escape.

– Do not ask for assistance while using an ATM. Rather go into the bank if you need assistance.