NELSPRUIT - Yesterday, Friday at about 16h45 Bethal Police arrested two suspects aged 29 and 50 in connection with business robbery after a store in Hendrina was reportedly robbed by the suspects.

The arrest came after police received a tip-off about the suspects involved in the business robbery.

According to our information it is said the suspects were travelling on the R38 using a white Toyota Etios with Gauteng registration number plates and were heading towards the direction of Bethal.

Police members responded swiftly and noticed the said vehicle with two occupants at the intersection between R38 Raod (Bethal-Middelburg) and R35 Road (Bethal-Hendrina) and intercepted the suspects with the assistance from ACSU Security, HABPS Security as well as members from Bethal Community Policing Forum (CPF). A search was then conducted in the said vehicle leading to the recovery of 96 cell phones, unlicensed firearm with 11 live rounds of ammunition. The serial number of the firearm was filed off.

The suspects were arrested on the spot for possession of suspected stolen property and possession of unlicensed firearm with ammunition.

The duo will appear at Bethal Magistrate's Court on Monday, 01 August 2022 facing the said charges.

The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has welcomed the success and appreciated the team work by various stakeholders. "It is very important to understand that the significant impact that can be made in the battle against crime requires a collaborative effort which has been displayed in this instance" said the General.

Source: South African Police Service