NELSPRUIT - The Police in Bushbuckridge began a massive manhunt for suspects following a business robbery at Dwarsloop Mall near Bushbuckridge in the early hours of today at around 01h30 am.
According to the information, approximately 30 suspects, armed with handguns and rifles are said to have stormed into the said Mall where they reportedly broke into several shops. It is reported that the suspects used explosives to gain access to cash inside the safes. The businesses that were affected by this robbery included amongst others, Gold Rush Casino, PEP Home, and PEP Clothing. The suspects took an undisclosed amount of cash from the respective safes as well as from machine slots after explosives. It is further reported that the suspects proceeded to Spitz Store where they stole shoes. They also went to PEP Cell and stole mobile phones. Boxer Liquor Store was not spared by these suspects who reportedly stole a large quantity of liquor. Whilst staging this robbery it is believed that they fired some shots hence a number of empty cartridges were found scattered all over the ground. The suspects fled the scene with the stolen items of which the total value of the stolen items is yet to be determined. Police at Bushbuckridge were informed about the incident and a business robbery case is being investigated but no one has been arrested thus far.
Police urge anyone with information that may assist in apprehending the perpetrators to contact Detective Lieutenant Colonel Christopher Mashego at 082 469 1298 or call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111. Alternatively members of the public can send information via MySAPS App. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
A 72-hour Activation Plan is in place and a team of investigators under the leadership of the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has been assembled and is already on the ground to probe this incident with a solid hope to swiftly bring the perpetrators to book. "As it is known that once a crime like this is committed in our province, we do not blink an eye but we will pursue them just like in other cases previously in put them behind bars without hesitation or fear. We hope that members of the community will also come on board as we will never fold our arms whilst people are deliberately attempting to bring the economy of the country to its knees. We will definitely act decisively and accordingly, just watch the space" emphasized the General.
Source: South African Police Service