FREE STATE – On 10 May 2022, at about 16:00, an armed robbery was reported at Quick Fit in Welkom. It was reported that four suspects were armed with automatic rifles and handguns and sped off from the scene in a white Mercedes Benz with GP number plates.

Today, the same white Mercedes Benz with FS number plates was spotted at Odendaalsrus. Upon noticing police, the suspects sped off in the direction of Welkom. The vehicle was spotted in the Stateway in the Industrial site of Welkom where Welkom K9 Unit members gave chase and a high speed chase ensued. The suspects fired shots towards the police.

The driver of the Mercedes Benz lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a ditch at the entrance of Bronville. The suspects then hijacked a couple in a BMW and sped off to Masimong Mine, where the vehicle was found abandoned. All the suspects are on the run and they are armed and dangerous.

The vehicle of Welkom K9 Unit is riddled with bullets and no member sustained any injuries. A case of attempted murder and business robbery in Welkom has been registered for further investigation. Investigation continues to establish whether the sedan has been stolen or not.

Anyone with information that can lead to the arrests of these suspects, is urged to contact Detective Sergeant Andrew Lechesa of Welkom Serious and Violent Crime on cellphone number 060 985 9330 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Source: South African Police Service