Newcastle resident abducted, robbed of thousands after bank visit

A local resident of Newcastle was recently abducted and robbed of thousands of Rands after visiting a bank at the Newcastle Mall.

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According to Newcastle SAPS spokesperson, Lizzy Arumugam, the man had withdrawn an estimated R50 000 from the bank and was heading to a liquor store to purchase alcohol for a lobola ceremony.

It was in the CBD, between Hardwick Street and a petrol station, that the man was confronted by two men in a white vehicle, with one of the men armed with a gun. They forced the man into their vehicle, pulled a bag over his head, and drove off with him for over an hour.

While driving with the man, the suspects stole his cellphone, wallet, and the cash he had withdrawn before dumping him in Charlestown and fleeing the scene. The victim spent the night in a safe place before hitchhiking back to Newcastle the following day to report the incident to the police.

“The matter is under investigation by the Newcastle SAPS,” said Arumugam.

Arumugam encouraged residents to exercise caution when withdrawing large sums of money from banks, suggesting they have someone accompany them and go directly home to avoid walking around with large amounts of cash.

This incident highlights the need for increased safety measures when withdrawing large sums of cash. It is essential to be aware of one’s surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and consider alternative methods of payment such as electronic transfers or online banking.

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