Cape Town authorities are seeking information regarding a man who is believed to be involved in a series of robberies targeting tourists in the Bo-Kaap area.
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The latest incident involved a 28-year-old South Korean woman, who captured the assault on her cellphone while filming a selfie video.
The victim was approached by the assailant during the video, who proceeded to rob her. The incident has sparked concern among authorities, who are urging anyone with information regarding the attacker or similar incidents to come forward and assist with the investigation.
In the video, the tourist is walking down Chiappini Street before being attacked from behind by a man. The footage, which was recorded by the victim, clearly captures the assault as the man tries to snatch her cellphone while choking her.
The woman screams for help before a man intervenes, causing the assailant to flee the scene. While the victim was thankfully rescued from harm’s way, the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of tourists in the area.
In response to the incident, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith stated that the City is investigating the authenticity of the video. It remains unclear whether the perpetrator has been identified, but the City is working to ensure the safety of its citizens and visitors alike.
‘Together with CT SAPS Detectives, members from our SSIMS and Law Enforcement began following up leads and searching for the alleged suspect, a homeless person who had since vacated his fixed residence in Bonteheuwel and had taken up residence in one of the tented camps in the Bo-Kaap area.’
‘Through the combined investigative resources, the victim was located shortly before departing from South Africa and agreed to register a criminal docket. A warrant has since been issued for the alleged attacker and the City is supporting SAPS in the tracing of the suspect, who is currently evading the police, ‘ JP Smith said.
According to the statement given, the victim was located just before leaving South Africa and agreed to press charges.
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Picture: Screenshot of the video / Facebook