Man wanted in Doon Heights jewellery-theft case
The thief stole a gold watch belonging to a Doon Heights resident that is worth thousands and holds sentimental value.
THE Amanzimtoti Police are asking for the public’s help in looking for a man who might be able to assist in an investigation regarding a valuable watch that was stolen from a Doon Heights home recently.
Also read: Doonside jewellery thief warning
Dick van Wyk, whose gold watch was stolen, said he had let an unknown man into his house who had come with a neighbour.
“He wanted to see and buy some things that we are selling as we are downsizing and getting rid of a lot of stuff,” said Van Wyk.
He was also shown some old coins and the man, whose name Van Wyk never got, asked if there was any jewellery he could see and buy.
“I showed him my old, gold Cyma watch which is worth thousands of rands. He then asked for a cup of coffee, and while we made his coffee, the watch disappeared along with him,” he said.
Van Wyk was able to get the man’s phone number from the neighbour who had introduced them, and upon calling him, he allegedly did not deny taking the watch but promised to pay for it.
The SUN has seen messages he allegedly sent, promising to pay Van Wyk R25 000 in instalments of R5 000 per week. At the time of going to press, he was already behind and had never made a single payment. Van Wyk said the watch is of sentimental value to him as it was his father’s.
Several cases have been reported over the years of a person entering residences and asking to see and buy jewellery before making off with it. In 2021, an elderly couple from a residential complex in Amanzimtoti lost jeweery worth about R75 000 after a man who had asked for water to drink convinced the couple that he was a jewellery buyer. He quietly disappeared with the loot while the couple was distracted.
Professional jewel assessor and buyer George Snodey asked people to be careful and to never allow strangers into their homes.
“I’ve been warning people for years now, but somehow, these thieves still get in. This suspect is very devious and very persuasive; you need to make sure he does not enter your yard. His plan is to get into your home, and once there, he will enquire about jewellery. Do not fall for his tricks,” said Snodey.
The man has been described as being Indian, having a dark complexion and of medium height. Anyone who can provide information regarding his whereabouts can call the Amanzimtoti Police on 031 913 1308.
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