POLOKWANE – The conmen usually request a large sum of money from their victim and promise to double the value if they comply. In one instance, a victim parted ways with R140 000 after he was assured he would get it back with 100% interest. According to Hawks Provincial Spokesperson, Capt Matimba Maluleke, the most recent victim was in the process of selling his house when he was conned.
“The conmen posed as potential buyers. After gaining the victim’s trust, they claimed they could double his money if he entrusted them with it,” Maluleka said. The victim withdrew an undisclosed amount of money and handed it over to the conmen. He says they proceeded to cover the money with a blanket and told him not to open the blanket for a short period of time. When he finally pulled the blanket away, there was no money, only pieces of paper. The victim says the conmen are nowhere to be found.
Capt Maluleke warns people not to trust others with their money. “There is no way to double money just like that. People must be on high alert and refrain from engaging with anyone who says they can magically increase their revenue,” Maluleke said.
He urged residents who are approached by these conmen to report them to their nearest police station or call the crime stop number at 08600 1011.
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