By Roy Denish.
Police are warning jewellers about a two-visit ring-swapping scam in which genuine gold jewellery is allegedly replaced with cheap replicas.
Police are on high alert following reports of a sophisticated ring-swapping scam targeting jewellers, executed through a clever two-visit ruse designed to bypass store security.
According to investigators, the suspect typically enters a jewellery store alone under the guise of looking to purchase a large quantity of gold.
After browsing the inventory, the individual deliberately shifts their focus to plain, simple rings.
Once the price has been established, the suspect tells the salesperson that they will return in a day or two to finalise the purchase of that specific ring.
True to their word, the suspect returns on the promised day.
However, instead of immediately addressing the previous visit, they casually point towards the showcase and ask about a different item — usually a chain.
The moment the salesperson turns around to retrieve the chain box from behind the counter, the suspect allegedly seizes the brief distraction to steal the original ring, instantly replacing it with a cheap replica.
Law enforcement officials note that the method involves a reconnaissance visit days earlier to build familiarity and identify a specific low-profile item, followed by a secondary request designed to draw the salesperson’s attention away from the counter and create an opportunity for a rapid switch.
Authorities advise jewellery-store owners and staff to remain vigilant during high-value viewings, especially when customers return after a brief interval to request specific items.
Store managers are encouraged to keep display cases locked immediately after showing an item and to ensure two-person staff coverage whenever high-value stock is being handled.
