Shopping centre’s ATMs unusable due to crime
Building owner says he's never had a direct complaint concerning the ATMs outside the entrances.
At least 11 reported cases of ATM fraud over the past few months have residents cowering away from the ATMs at Witpoortjie Shopping Centre.
The centre, mostly known for its large Pick n Pay outlet, has earned a reputation for the ATMs on the outside of its entrances.
The Western Suburbs Roodepoort Neighbourhood Watch (WSRNW) came forward, sharing with the Record at least 11 recorded incidents that they were aware of since August last year.
“As you can imagine, we don’t know of every single case of card theft or fraud at the centre,” Matthys van Rensburg said, adding not every resident will make such a complaint to a block watch. The complaints include many card thefts at the ATMs by a group of three suspects, resportedly neatly dressed. Other incidents were reported where residents were robbed of their belongings, including their wallets, after just having drawn money at the specific ATMs.
Whether it is a crime hot spot or a specific gang that targets the same spot repeatedly has not yet been established. No guards can be seen in or around the centre by day or by night.
Last week, the Record reported on a shoplifting case there, of which the suspects were arrested further down Generaal Pienaar Street.
Building owner Costa Sardianos upon being contacted by the Record said it is the first direct complaint he has received. He did not want to be quoted without having investigated the situation, but committed to responding to a list of emailed questions soon.
Want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us an SMS/ WhatsApp message with your name and cellphone number to 079 414 6709.Â
Familiarise yourself with our WhatsApp service disclaimer.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
