Continuous enhanced police visibility and high density patrols in focus areas in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metro has resulted in the speedy arrest of an alleged robbery suspect, confiscation of a firearm and seizure of suspected stolen property.
It is alleged that on Thursday, 11 January 2018 at about 15:40, a Tops liquor store in Aspen Heights Bethelsdorp was robbed at gunpoint by five men.
According to police information, the men threatened the staff and a few customers. The security guard was overpowered and an unknown amount of money, 3 cellphones and some liquor was taken before they escaped in a white Corsa bakkie.
All the victims including the customers were pushed into the walk in refrigerator.
Immediately after the incident, the vehicle registration number was circulated on all police channels. The vehicle was spotted by members of Motherwell Operational Command Center. A chase ensued into Perseverance where the suspects hastily abandoned the vehicle and fled in different directions.
One person was arrested hiding in a shack in Kani Street, Kwazakele. A 9mm firearm and a bag of money were recovered from the house. The Corsa bakkie (not reported stolen) was seized by police. The man, approx. 24 year old was detained at Kwazakele on charges of illegal possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammunition and possession of suspected stolen property.
Further investigation will be followed to establish the suspect’s alleged involvement in the robbery at the liquor store.
The Cluster Commander for Motherwell Cluster, Major General Dawie Rabie commended the members for their reaction and apprehension of the suspect and seizure of the firearm and money.
“We will not allow criminals to upper hand and we will ensure that through our investigations that these criminals are brought before court and handed down the sentence they deserve. We are calling on the communities to work with the SAPS and to report any suspicious behavior of persons in their areas,” added Major General Rabie.
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