SAPS members arrest four suspects for business robbery

Swift police action led to the arrest four suspects following a business robbery which took place at a store on Friday, 09 April 2021 at 08:30, in Idutywa.

Preliminary investigation suggests that about six male suspects stormed into the business as the employees were reporting for duty. They are alleged to have demanded money, an amount of which was not disclosed. Thereafter, they escaped from the scene with some clothing items and shoes from the said business.

Police were called and immediately launched a manhunt for the suspects who were at the time fleeing in the direction of Mthatha. The Tactical Response Team, which was on deployment in Mthatha, was alerted to the incident. The six suspects, who later realised that they were being followed by the police, started shooting at SAPS members in the Ultra-City by-pass, near Chris Hani location. It is alleged that there was a shoot-out between the police and the armed suspects which led to the arrest of the four suspects aged between 31 and 57 whilst two of the suspects were fatally wounded during the incident.

Two suspects were transported to the hospital for medical attention after they were reportedly injured during the shooting. Six fire-arms were confiscated during the incident. Cases of Business Robbery, Attempted Murder and Possession of Unlicensed firearms have been registered for investigation. The arrest suspects are expected in Idutywa Magistrate’s Court once they are charged.

The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Liziwe Ntshinga has appreciated the work of the police in moving with speed in order to save lives. “This was a serious and deadly incident which could have also cost the lives of our members. The remaining suspects must provide information into their wicked activities and answer to the law.” Lieutenant General Ntshinga concluded.

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