Swift police intervention secured the arrest of three male suspects and at the same time saved their lives from a vigilante community mob in NU29, Motherwell on the morning of 31 January 2018, at about 10:00.
The group of about 150 people were assaulting the suspects whom they alleged were street robbers in the area. When police arrived on the scene, the group of people were walking with two of the suspects towards one of their houses, also in NU29. Police assessed the scene and realized they were also going to pick up a third suspect at Koedoeskloof refuse processing plant.
One person of the group, Mr Viwe Goboto, 38, claimed that the three suspects robbed him at gunpoint on Sunday 28 January 2018 just after 21:00 in an open space close to Makhwezane Street, NU29.
Motherwell police members, assisted by Public Order Police members rescued the two suspects and picked up the third suspect at Koedoeskloof. This suspect was found in possession of the cellphone and cap which was robbed from the complainant on Sunday.
Police also searched the house of the second suspect and confiscated the toy gun (imitation fire arm) which was allegedly used in the robbery. Also confiscated were other suspected stolen property such as two ladies handbags, two wristwatches, a torch, three gents wallets and two bank cards.
All three suspects aged 22, 22 and 29 were arrested for armed robbery and possession of suspected stolen property.
SAPS is currently also investigating the suspects for their possible involvement with other robberies in the area.
They will be appearing before the Motherwell Magistrates Court on Thursday 1 February 2018.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
