Silver-tongued scammer steals 80-year-old’s precious Thali

Tongaat, KZN – An 80-year-old woman from Vanrova, Tongaat, was the victim of a daylight theft after a man posing as a jewellery buyer deceived her and fled with valuable items, including a sacred Thali necklace.

According to Reaction Unit South Africa, officers responded to the incident at around 12:28 on Friday. The suspect reportedly gained access to the victim’s property by entering through the driveway, claiming to represent a well-known jeweller interested in purchasing gold jewellery.

“Trusting his story, the elderly woman allowed the man into her home,” Reaction Unit South Africa said in a statement. “He sat at the dining table, displayed cash from his pocket, and convinced the victim to hand over her Thali for inspection.”

The Thali, a sacred necklace traditionally worn by married Tamil women, consisted of a yellow string adorned with seven 18-carat gold pendants, valued at approximately R14,000.

The suspect then allegedly requested a glass of water, persuading the victim to leave the room. “Seizing the opportunity, he stole both the Thali and a Samsung cellphone left on the table before fleeing the scene in a blue vehicle,” the statement read. Details regarding the make, model, and registration of the vehicle remain unconfirmed.

Reaction Unit South Africa urged anyone with information about the suspect or who may be approached to purchase the stolen items to come forward. “Anyone who may have information about the suspect or is approached to purchase the stolen Thali or cellphone is requested to contact Reaction Unit South Africa at 086 1234 333,” the statement said.