A LOCAL businessman’s employee had R16 580 stolen out of his pocket this week after being stopped by two men impersonating traffic officials.
The employee, who wants to remain anonymous, left ABSA bank in Empangeni’s CBD after withdrawing R20 000 for his employer and placed it in his pocket on Wednesday morning.
After a quick stop at a tailor to pay him R3 420, the employee headed back to the Rail, along Main Road.
While driving down Main Road it is reported the employee noticed a white Volkswagen following him flashing its headlights. The Volkswagen drove parallel to the employee’s car and showed him what looked like a police badge, telling him to pull over.
Once out the vehicle, the employee was accused of reckless driving and was told he may need to be taken to the local police station. After a few minutes of questioning, the employee was informed he may leave, but should watch his driving in future.
Back at his place of work, the employee was horrified to find his pockets were not filled with the bank notes, but rolled up pieces of newspaper.
‘I could not believe my eyes, the money was in my pocket the whole time. Getting pulled over was frightening enough, but after returning to work and finding more than R16 000 had disappeared, I was devastated. Without my job I will lose everything.’
Returning to the bank with his employee, the police were contacted and a case of theft was opened.
The police warn the public to be extra vigilant when drawing large amounts of money from a bank or ATM.
