Shoplifting message is a hoax, but police warn shoppers to always be vigilant

POLOKWANE – According to the message, sent to Review’s Whatsapp number, there have been incidents where people, especially women, are being targeted for shoplifting. People unknown to them in shops will throw items from the store into their handbags and the unsuspecting person then walks out of a store, sounding an alarm and when he/she is found with items not paid, they are arrested and jailed. This message however, has been circulating for years and hasn’t been proved to be true.

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Although it is an old message, Review asked local stores about shoplifting and the actions they take. Several stores say they do not call the police in cases like that but rather, take pictures of the perpetrators found with stolen items. Others say in cases where the value of the item may be high, CCTV footage in the store is required for them to open a case.

According to provincial police spokesperson, Col. Moatshe Ngoepe, there have been no reports of shoplifting but he says robbery and shoplifting is more prevalent when people get paid and in the festive season.

He adds that in most cases, people who are caught shoplifting will not be jailed, but must pay an admission of guilt and that arrests are only made for repeat offenders and the case will then be take to court for action.

“In most shops, the management have different ways of dealing with shoplifting and many just warn the people and then ban them from certain stores. They may also take a picture of the person to be given to security to make sure that they do not come back,” Ngoepe says.

He further warned that people should be alert at all times, especially in shopping centres at busy times. He also warned criminals that police are working closely with security companies to combat crime within the city and the rest of the province.

riana@nmgroup.co.za