Attacks on innocent law abiding citizens has prompted the community in Summerstrand to be extra vigilant and to be aware of their surroundings at all times. This alertness paid off as two armed robbery suspects’ freedom were curtailed within minutes after allegedly robbing a 38 year old woman.
It is alleged that on Thursday, 7 June 2018 at about 07:40, the woman was standing at the corners of Erasmus and Admiralty Way waiting for a taxi to go to work. Two unknown men were standing with her. Suddenly one pulled out a firearm while the other produced a knife. They threatened her and took her handbag, cell phone and personal items before running off.
A passer by saw the screaming woman and stopped. After explaining to the driver what happened, the driver took her and while on the way to the police station, they noticed a group of people and a security official with two men lying on the ground in the parking area of Pollock beach. When they stopped, the complainant recognised the suspects. All her stolen items were in their possession. A member of the community also seized a .38 revolver and the knife.
Both suspects aged 26 and 30 years old were apprehended and detained on charges on Armed Robbery, illegal possession of a firearm and illegal possession of ammunition. Police will be investigating whether the suspects could be linked to other crimes in the area. They are expected to appear in court soon.
The Cluster Commander for Mount Road, Maj Gen Thembisile Patekile has commended the community for their swift response and for immediately coming to the aid of the distraught victim.
‘Fighting crime is a shared responsibility and the speedy mobilization of the community this morning shows that they (the community) are definitely the eyes and ears of the police. Their action resulted in the arrest of the suspects. I urge the communities to continue working in close partnership with the police because together WE can do more,’ added Maj Gen Patekile.
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