Eight victims report scam?robbery by suspect in custody

VERULAM – Seen in the first picture is a elderly couple that reported being robbed by the suspect that was arrested by RUSA in Phoenix yesterday. Eight pensioners have reported to the RUSA Headquarters on Tuesday morning explaining to Reaction Officers that they had seen an article on social media regarding the arrest of a wanted scammer/robber that were targeting the elderly in the Verulam CBD.

All victims aged between 65 – 80 years old reported being scammed by the same male in a white Toyota Conquest. Detectives at the South African Police Services at Verulamare investigating. Reaction Officers handed over the suspect to the Police (Monday) and discussed the matter with SAPS Verulam Vispol Commander Colonel S. Strydom who assisted the Officers & complainants without delay.

The suspect was arrested in Westham on Monday at 16h03 by Reaction Officers who searched for the man for 72 hours. The white Toyota Conquest used in the crime was also recovered. Officers surrounded his home and found the suspect hiding on the ceiling. He offered RUSA Officers a bribe of R50 000 in cash for his release. He was immediately restrained & taken into custody.

The suspects modus operandi was to approach the elderly posing as a family member. He would explain that he was related to them and then scam them out off thousands of rands. Several victims who realised they were being scammed and failed to hand over cash was held at knifepoint and robbed.

Detectives from SAPS Verulam are currently opposing bail at the Verulam Magistrates Court and are requesting a seven day remand for the suspect to be held in custody. An update will follow.