Beware of pick-pockets, public warned

Thursday September 24, 2009

By GEETHA KRISHNAN

RESIDENTS have been urged to be cautious of pick-pockets who are now operating in a team of three members in Bandar Sungai Long, Selangor.

Kajang municipal councillor Tan Han Kuo said the group’s modus operandi was brought to his attention by several victims who had shopped at the daily morning market near the commercial centre.

“I was told the group would single out women and old ladies as their targets. One of the team members would bump into the victim on purpose, causing her to drop her purchases, while another would quickly swoop in and pretend to help retrieve her belongings.

“Once the victim gets distracted, the third team member will swiftly snatch her purse.

“The victim would only realise the theft when they are out of sight,” he said.

As a deterrent, signs warning residents of pick-pockets and snatch thieves have been put up.

The newly-formed Petty Traders Association of Bandar Sungai Long, Kajang, Selangor, is also working with the authorities to curb the crime.

Meanwhile, Tan urged the public to be careful when visiting the area and not to carry large amounts of cash or purses and wallets that would attract undue attention.