POTCHEFSTROOM: An intelligence driven operation by a multi-disciplinary team comprising of detectives, K9, Air Wing and Visible Policing resulted in the arrest of two armed robbery suspects, aged 39 and 40 on Tuesday, 10 August 2021.
It is alleged that security company officials were busy with pension pay-outs in the Community Hall at Elias village outside Ganyesa when four male suspects entered, pointed them with firearms and ordered everyone to lie down. Consequently, the suspects robbed security officials of their firearms and ultimately took two cash containers before fleeing the scene driving in a white Toyota Double Cab bakkie vehicle affixed with Northern Cape registration number.
Following the incident, police from the surrounding police stations, Air Wing, local farmers and members of the community launched an intensive search for the suspects. Information was received during the search that two men were seen running out of a house in Kgokgojane village and carrying what appeared to be cash bags. On following up, police found two cash containers. Equally important, the suspects who fired shots at the police, were finally arrested in the nearby bushes. During the arrest, R35 000.00 was found in possession of one of the suspects. In addition, a 9mm pistol and a bag containing cash were found concealed in a hole. The search is underway for other suspects.
Meanwhile, the arrested suspects who are both from Jouberton Location outside Klerksdorp, are expected to appear in the Ganyesa Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 12 August 2021, facing charges of armed robbery, attempted murder as well as unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition.
The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena lauded the police, members of the community and farmers for their collaborative efforts, which ensured the arrest of the pair. He indicated that no stone will be left unturned in tracing the outstanding suspects.
Source: South African Police Service
