WATCH: Man robbed of cellphone in alleged ‘hugging’ theft at Durban shopping complex
The man who had gone to a bakery to buy bread, was the latest victim of the hugging gang, which pickpockets unsuspecting people while hugging them.
A CCTV video appears to depict a man being robbed of his cellphone at a Durban shopping complex, drawing renewed safety warnings from local representatives. The individual in question was visiting a bakery to purchase bread when he became the latest victim of the "hugging gang," notorious for pickpocketing unsuspecting individuals while hugging them.
According to CCTV footage, the man was approached by an individual who seemed friendly as he exited the bakery. While the man noticed his cellphone had been stolen, he did not react and appeared to be in shock as the suspect fled with the device.
Vishal Dooki, chairperson of the Newlands Community Policing Forum, has noted a rise in crime in the area and has issued multiple warnings to the public. He stated that various types of theft, including vehicle theft, theft from motor vehicles, remote hacking, and pickpocketing, have been reported. Dooki emphasized that the "hugging modus operandi" is a new and alarming tactic used by criminals in the region. He urged people to remain vigilant about their surroundings and avoid allowing anyone to get too close to them.
In response to these escalating safety concerns, the Newlands Community Policing Forum has urged the owner of the shopping complex to enhance security measures. They have also encouraged residents to take extra precautions to protect themselves, such as being more aware of their surroundings and adhering to safety tips. The "hugging gang" has been active in various locations, including Chatsworth, Malvern, Verulam, and Durban North, preying on unsuspecting victims with their deceptive and aggressive methods.
Prem Balram, head of Reaction Unit South Africa, explained that the gang typically approaches their targets under the pretense of friendship, hugs them to distract, steps on their feet, and discreetly removes their cellphones. Balram advised residents to report such incidents, regardless of their size, to help police track and apprehend the perpetrators.
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