A commendable success unfolded in the vigilant efforts of the South African Police Service (SAPS) yesterday, 13 December 2023, when members from SAPS Nelson Mandela Bay Crime Combating Unit (CCU) members arrested four male suspects, following an armed robbery at a clothing outlet at Metlife Plaza, Gqeberha.
This unfolded after the clothing outlet was robbed by three males entering the premises at about 13:20. They produced firearms demanding cash and cell phones. After taking several cell phones from a safe and an undisclosed amount of cash from the registers, they fled the scene in a white Chev Spark.
A few hours later at about 18:45, the same vehicle was spotted by NMB CCU members driving in Highfield Road, Schauderville with four suspects inside. When the driver of the Spark saw the police, he speeded away and a short vehicle chase ensued. The Spark came to a stop in Schauder Avenue, Holland Park and two of the occupants got out of the vehicle with a black back pack and attempted to flee from the scene. All four suspects were arrested and the black bag searched. A 9mm pistol with 8 rounds ammunition, as well as several cell phones, chargers and an undisclosed amount of cash was found inside the back pack and confiscated.
The suspects with ages ranging between 33 and 43 years are facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition and illegal possession of stolen property, but additional charges could be added later with further investigation being conducted.
