[Image: Roboflow Universe]
If you’re enjoying a meal in Sea Point, keep an eye on your stuff – because thieves sure are.
Residents and tourists alike have been warned about a group of slick-fingered criminals targeting restaurant-goers, snatching cellphones and bags while their victims are blissfully distracted.
The Sea Point Central Improvement District (CID) has confirmed arrests have been made, but they suspect an organised syndicate is behind the string of thefts. And these guys aren’t amateurs.
“Across the city, there has been an increase in thefts targeting cellphones and bags at restaurants. Unfortunately, Sea Point has also experienced these incidents, with organised syndicates operating in the area,” said the Sea Point CID.
They added that while some of the culprits have been nabbed, more groups are out there, lurking in busy spots and waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
“These criminals are quick and tend to focus on busy establishments where distractions make it easier for them to strike,” the CID warned.
That just means you have to stay sharp.
“Never leave your belongings unattended or hanging over your chair, as this makes them an easy target,” they added. “By staying aware and cautious, we can help prevent these crimes and keep our community safe.”
Further questions to the CID went unanswered on Sunday, according to Cape Argus. Sea Point ward councillor Nicola Jowell, however, is stepping up security, confirming that new CCTV cameras have been installed – one of which already helped bust a car thief within two weeks.
“As part of my ward allocation funding for last year, I set aside funding for a cyclops/surveillance camera covering the Queens Beach and Saunders’ Beach area,” Jowell shared on Facebook. “This side had no camera coverage, and we all know how busy it is there.”
The camera proved its worth almost immediately.
“A car break-in was caught on camera, and the suspect was identified. The footage was relayed to Law Enforcement, who quietly tracked him before making the arrest,” she detailed.
Jowell has also previously funded licence plate recognition (LPR) cameras, with three more set to go up in the next financial year to cover more blind spots.
Jowell warned that these crooks don’t work solo. They come in groups, blending in with restaurant crowds before executing their well-rehearsed heists.
“Unfortunately restaurant theft of handbags and other unattended items is a continual concern across the city,” she detailed.
“The same groups operate in restaurants not just in Sea Point. The modus operandi is to come in as a group and either distract patrons or staff or sit at an adjacent table or chair to the person they intend to steal from.”
They typically go for bags slung over chairs, tucked under tables, or left on empty seats. The theft is slick – one member snatches the item, immediately passes it to an accomplice, and just like that, it’s gone.
“I am aware that there have been previous arrests. In some instances there is reasonably good footage of the suspects which not only assists with awareness but tying cases together once an arrest has been made.”
Bottom line? Don’t make it easy for them. Hold onto your bags, keep your phone in sight, and if something feels off, trust your gut. Because while Sea Point has the views, it also has some vultures. Stay sharp.
[Source: CapeArgus]
