A Quick response led to the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of an unlicensed firearm with ammunition and stolen goods during a robbery at a business premises in West End on Monday 08/11 in Bethelsdorp area.

It is alleged that on the above mentioned date at approximately 12:30 at a chain store in St Bede Street, six armed suspects entered the shop and threatened the staff members and customers. They were taken to the back of the store, where they demanded cell phones and money.  The manager was taken to the safe by two armed suspects, where the cell phones are kept and she was further instructed to open the safe. The suspects took cell phones and packed them in a bag, while two other suspects were busy empting the cash registers.  While the robbery was in progress they heard gunshots being fired outside.  The suspects fled from the store with cell phones and cash from the tills. At this stage it is not clear who fired the shots.

It is further alleged that four suspects jumped into a white VW golf and fled from the scene, while the other two suspects fled on foot.  Within minutes after the information was broadcasted on police radio channels, police vehicles responded.  The VW golf was seen in Soudien Road, Bethelsdorp where a high speed chase ensued in the direction of Kleinskool.  The members forced the vehicle to stop and apprehended four suspects and also recovered an unlicensed firearm inside the vehicle.  The two suspects that fled on foot were apprehended by community members and handed over to the SAPS Bethelsdorp.

The cell phones that were taken during the robbery were recovered and the VW Golf was impounded. A business robbery case and illegal possession of unlicensed fire arm are currently under investigation.

The suspects aged between 25 and 29 that were arrested will appear in the Gelvandale Magistrate court during the week.

Source: South African Police Service