Camera exposes drug dealer as ATM card thieves arrested!

TWO MEN NABBED IN GCUWA FOR BANK CARD SCAM – DRUG LINK EMERGES!

Two men were arrested in Butterworth after they were allegedly caught snatching bank cards from unsuspecting community members. The incident happened on 2 December and has raised fresh concern as criminals begin hunting for easy Christmas money across the Eastern Cape.

Residents say these scams always spike during the festive season — but this time, there’s a twist. One of the suspects was also caught on camera allegedly selling drugs in the same area.

THE LATE-NIGHT SCAM THAT WENT WRONG

According to information received, the two suspects were operating in the busy parts of Gcuwa where many people withdraw cash after work. Police were alerted after community members noticed suspicious activity around ATMs.

It is alleged that the suspects used a “card swapping” trick — confusing victims during withdrawals and then disappearing with their bank cards. But their luck ran out when alert residents chased them down and called the police.

Officers swiftly arrived at the scene and arrested both men before they could flee with the stolen cards.

DRUG-DEALING SUSPECT CAUGHT ON CAMERA

Police sources confirmed that one of the arrested men is the same person who recently appeared on camera allegedly selling drugs in the area. The footage has been circulating among community groups, adding even more pressure on police to clean up the town ahead of the holiday rush.

Residents say the arrest is a relief, as drug activity around ATMs has created a dangerous environment where criminals roam freely and prey on vulnerable people.

CHRISTMAS CRIME SEASON – COMMUNITY ON HIGH ALERT

With December now in full swing, communities across the Eastern Cape fear the annual surge in crime. Criminals are known to target people who have just withdrawn their salaries, bonuses, or social grants.

Gcuwa locals say they have seen an unusual increase in strangers hanging around banks and shops at night.

“Abafana bazula apha, bafuna imali yeKrismesi,” said one resident. “These boys are circling the town looking for Christmas money.”

Police have urged residents to remain vigilant, avoid withdrawing money late at night, and never accept help from strangers at ATMs.

POLICE INVESTIGATING FURTHER LINKS

Authorities are now investigating whether the suspects are part of a bigger syndicate targeting towns between Dutywa, Gcuwa, and surrounding areas. More arrests are expected as police follow up leads from community tip-offs and CCTV evidence.

The two men will appear in court soon to face charges related to theft, fraud, and possible drug offences.

Residents are hopeful that this arrest will send a strong message — criminals won’t have a free pass this festive season.