Authorities are warning consumers to be vigilant on big shopping days during the December holidays, after a video emerged on social media of a woman using children to pickpocket a shopper.
The clip, which has gone viral, was apparently recorded at Dis-Chem at the Liberty Promenade mall in Mitchells Plain.
The camera footage shows a woman standing at the entrance of the pharmacy, blocking the path of another woman behind her.
Two children approach the woman at the back who is struggling to enter the store, and one of the laaities is seen taking a cellphone out of her bag.
Dis-Chem’s manager confirmed that the incident took place at the store, but said he could not provide any further comment about the incident.
“It is all over social media, that is why you have it. You can speak to our legal department,” he said.
Dis-Chem’s legal department, however, said they were not aware of the video.
There is no police record of the theft incident and no case has been registered.
Fransina Lukas, chairperson of the Western Cape Community Policing Forum, warned that there will be more incidents like these and people should take necessary precautions.
“They must be aware of their surroundings at all times. Women must not leave handbags on the floor while eating at restaurants,” she advises.
“Keep valuables out of sight and do not ask for assistance from anyone while using ATMs.
“Do not leave cards inside ATMs when it’s apparently stuck, but alert mall security or call emergency numbers to alert the bank to block cards.”