The South African hair thieves targeting dreadlocks

27 February 2013 Last updated at 17:27 ET Help

Dreadlocks have become so popular in South Africa that thieves are now snatching them from people's heads and selling them for a profit.

Shoulder-length dreadlocks are sold for between 200 rand ($23; £15) and 700 rand, while longer ones cost as much as 2,000 rand.

The new crime has left many people with dreadlocks living in fear, and police are calling for people to open cases of assault.

Pumza Fihlani reports.

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