North West Police
By Karabo Marifi
Police in the North West province have issued a warning to residents to remain vigilant when using their bank cards. This comes after two suspects were arrested in separate incidents in Potchefstroom for allegedly stealing bank cards.
In the first incident, a man was withdrawing cash at an ATM when it malfunctioned. He canceled the transaction, but upon receiving his card back, he realized it was not his. Shortly thereafter, unauthorized withdrawals were made from a nearby shop. The victim reviewed CCTV footage at the shop and, a few days later, spotted the same individual in town and alerted the police.
First Incident: ATM Card Swap
Second Incident: Suspicious Vehicle Search
In an unrelated incident, Potchefstroom Crime Prevention members were on patrol when they received a lookout alert for a suspicious-looking Mini Cooper vehicle. The vehicle was spotted on Dr. James Moroka Avenue and was subsequently pulled over. Upon searching the vehicle and its driver, police found numerous bank cards hidden in the driver’s underwear. The suspect could not provide a satisfactory explanation for possessing the cards. Further investigation revealed that the suspect is also on trial in Gauteng for a similar offense. The individual was arrested, and the vehicle was confiscated.
Police Advisory
Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane has urged residents to exercise caution when using ATMs and to be aware of their surroundings. He advises individuals to report any suspicious behavior immediately and to regularly monitor their bank statements for unauthorized transactions.
Recent Trends in Bank Card Fraud
These incidents are part of a concerning trend in the region. In September 2024, police in the North West province warned residents about increasing fraud scams involving fake bank calls, fraudulent inheritance claims, and deceptive car sales. Scammers have been known to impersonate bank staff to deceive unsuspecting individuals. 
Preventative Measures
To protect oneself from bank card fraud, consider the following tips:
• Stay Alert at ATMs: Use ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas. If a machine appears to be tampered with or functions unusually, avoid using it and report it to the bank immediately.
• Protect Personal Information: Never share your PIN or bank card details with anyone. Be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages requesting personal or financial information.
• Monitor Bank Statements: Regularly review your bank statements for any unauthorized transactions. Report discrepancies to your bank promptly.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect fraudulent activity or notice someone behaving suspiciously near ATMs, contact the police immediately.
By staying vigilant and following these precautions, residents can help protect themselves against bank card fraud and related scams.
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