A warning has been issued over distraction pickpocketing after a video appeared to capture a man’s cellphone being stolen from his pocket while he was distracted by another man.
The footage, shared on X by crime activist and journalist Yusuf Abramjee, shows one man engaging the victim in conversation while another appears to move in close and remove the cellphone from the victim’s pocket.
It is unclear where the incident took place.
Abramjee urged the public to remain vigilant, warning that criminals use distraction tactics to target unsuspecting victims.
“Watch your belongings! They use distraction tactics to get close to you and then pickpocket you,” Abramjee said.
He urged people to be particularly cautious in busy public spaces, where thieves can take advantage of crowds to operate unnoticed.
BE CAREFUL OF THESE SCAMMERS:
Watch your belongings! They use distraction tactics to get close to you and then pickpocket you.
Stay alert, especially in busy shopping areas, transport hubs and crowded places. Keep your phone, wallet and valuables secure, and don’t let strangers… pic.twitter.com/hv9Okd89JJ
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) September 13, 2026
“Stay alert, especially in busy shopping areas, transport hubs and crowded places,” he said.
Abramjee also advised people to keep their valuables secure and avoid allowing strangers to get unnecessarily close.
“Keep your phone, wallet and valuables secure, and don’t let strangers distract you or get too close,” he said.
The footage highlights the importance of remaining aware of one’s surroundings, particularly when approached by strangers in busy areas.
Abramjee urged members of the public to share the warning to help prevent others from falling victim to similar incidents.
“Share this warning. It could help prevent someone else from becoming a victim,” he said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
