South African gangs snatch wigs from people’s heads in street

Robbers in South Africa are snatching wigs made of human hair from people’s heads after the valuable hairpieces became the latest targets for criminals.

Women have reported a spate of wig-snatchings in downtown Johannesburg and Cape Town as criminals strike commuters, students and even individuals leaving hair salons.

High-grade wigs made from human hair can cost more than £100 and are sold on by the thieves, News24 reported.

Zandile Magagula told the South African news site she had been making her way to work in Johannesburg and was walking to the Bree Street taxi rank when she was attacked for her new £140 hair piece.

She said: “Normally, I put my wig on when I get to the office, but that day I had it on my head because I was excited about my new hair.”

“I wasn’t far from the rank when two guys walked past me. I didn’t think much of it because it was in the morning. In mere seconds, I felt my head bobbing backwards and my wig being pulled.”

She added: “I swore at them as I turned to face them with my wig half on my head, and that’s when the other guy grabbed a handful of hair to remove it completely.”

Mamello Makha, who operates a chain of salons across Johannesburg and sells premium human-hair wigs said she had heard many stories of clients having their wigs snatched.

“Clients have told me about their wigs being stolen before they can reach the taxi rank,” she said.

She said: “The cost of hair is directly tied to its grade. Higher grades fetch a higher price and offer more versatility in styling.”