The Paarl police wishes to warn the public and especially guest houses regarding tourists who are being targeted by parking bay scammers.
Police spokesperson Capt Louise du Plessis says African males, identifying themselves as security officers, typically approach people and tourists as they park their cars at malls in the Paarl area.
“They then inform the complainant that they have to pay for their parking otherwise their vehicles will be clamped,” she explained.
The payment can be done only via an ATM.
“The suspects then escorts the victim to an ATM (which has been tampered with) and in the process gain access to the funds in the complainants bank account.”
Du Plessis reiterates that parking at malls in Paarl is free.
“We also ask any victims of such scams that if any one approaches them for payment to report it directly to the respective mall management and to contact the Paarl police on 021 807 4008/09.”
