GQEBERHA – Quick police response and immediate relaying of information of a business robbery in Kariega led to the arrest of seven suspects and the subsequent recovery of a firearm and suspected stolen goods.

It is alleged that today, at approximately 14:00, seven suspects armed with a knife and a firearm entered a clothing store in Caledon Street, Kariega, threatened the manager and forced her to pack cellphones and cash into bags. The suspects fled in a silver Toyota Avanza.

The robbery was immediately circulated and all police vehicles were alerted to be on the lookout for the getaway vehicle. Minutes later, a SAPS Kwanobuhle vehicle patrolling on the Rocklands Road spotted the vehicle fitting the description circulated and requested for back-up. SAPS Kabega Park detective members and a private security vehicle responded. A vehicle chase ensued into Mission Road towards Kuyga. In Nzotoyi Street the vehicle was intercepted and forced to stop. A total of seven suspects aged between 21 and 27 years old were arrested.

An undisclosed amount of cash, a bag containing several cellphones, a 7.65mm firearm and a gas pistol were found inside the vehicle. The Toyota Avanza was impounded for further investigation.

At this stage, the suspects were detained on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as possession of suspected stolen property. Investigations are underway to establish a positive link of the suspects’ involvement in the business robbery.

The suspects will appear in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court during the week.

Source: South African Police Service