When residents withdraw large amounts of money it does not come without risks.
These have been highlighted in the WITBANK NEWS numerous times but still cases are opened at the Witbank Police Station after large amounts are withdrawn and then stolen.
One person was shot in his leg and is still picking up the pieces. Another lost his life due to a similar incident.
The crime kick started on Tuesday, October 30 when two victims suffered a great loss. Around mid-day, the victim withdrew a large amount of money and he told police that as he left the bank he saw a silver grey Golf with registration number DDC 881 L following him.
He drove faster and went into the car wash next to Tshwane University of Technology and the vehicle then changed direction. At the car wash, the golf appeared again and two suspects got out the vehicle straight to him. Firearms were pointed in their direction and everyone at the car wash was told to lie down.
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The victim told police that the suspects broke the window of his vehicle and asked for the money.
The suspects took the money he just withdrew, fired a shot and fled the scene.
On the same day, it was reported that a victim withdrew a smaller amount of money and as he was walking from the bank he felt the bag with the money, being pulled away. He was pointed with a firearm and the victim told police that the suspects took the money and got into a black Toyota Corolla with registration number: HLS 547 MP and fled the scene.
On October 31 a victim had to cash a cheque for a business.
“I got to the car and people were behind me, pushing me in my neck. They asked me for the money and took it. I didn’t even have time to open the door of the car properly. They took my wallet, two-way radio and the money,” Kleinbooi Skhosana said.
In another incident on November 3 the victim withdrew money and did some shopping afterwards. As he sat at a restaurant, two men sat with him although he did not know them. They got up when the victim did, without ordering anything and headed outside. The victim’s sister, who preferred to remain anonymous, said:
“They got into an argument and when the victims saw he was strong, they pulled out their gun. I suspect that he was followed from the bank and they took the new clothes he bought, as well as his cell phones and the money he withdrew.”
Capt Eddie Hall, media spokesperson for the Witbank Police Station said:
“We have sent out numerous warnings regarding this. We always advise to not withdraw large amounts of money. But, if you have to, get additional security for your own protection. Bank followings are a reality and the suspects will shoot. There is a banking forum and we have monthly meetings with them, discussing all commercial crimes. We do look at current ‘crime trends’ and think of ways to limit risks.”
He said that banks have done their bit in trying to keep clients safe.
“They have banned cell phones from all tellers which can attract criminal elements. Banks do also know about ‘spotters’ and they are trying to limit the risks. The banking forum works closely with the police but we do urge the public to rather do electronic payments and do everything they can to not withdraw large amounts of money at once.”
