Business robbery suspects arrested in KwaZulu-Natal
The swift response by Umlazi K9 Unit members led to the arrest of two business robbery suspects at Z section, Umlazi. Two suspects aged 20 and 26 have been arrested. A firearm, undisclosed amount of cash and airtime vouchers were recovered.
It is alleged that on 12 March 2018 at 10:00, two suspects armed with firearms entered a supermarket, demanding cash and airtime vouchers. They took the items at gunpoint and fled the scene on foot. A case of business robbery was opened at Bhekithemba police station for investigation. Police received a complaint of two suspects who had robbed the supermarket in AA section, Umlazi and proceeded to the area. Whilst at Z section, the K9 members spotted the suspects fitting the description supplied and gave chase. Suspects fired several shots at police during the chase. Police retaliated and injured one of the suspects. Both suspects were arrested and the injured suspect was found in possession of a firearm and stolen items. He was taken to hospital for medical attention under police guard.
The other suspect was taken to the police station for detention. They will be charged with business robbery, attempted murder and the injured suspect will also be charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm as well as ammunition. They will appear in the Umlazi Magistrates’ Court soon. Police are still searching for the second firearm.
Another intelligence-driven operation was conducted by Public Order Policing Special Project Team aimed at eradicating the proliferation of firearms in the province. At 13:00, police proceeded to a house in D section, Umlazi where they found a 34-year-old male in possession of a pistol with 22 rounds of ammunition. The firearm had its serial number filed off. The suspect was immediately arrested and was charged with possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition. He was taken to Umlazi police station for detention. He is appearing today in the Umlazi Magistrates’ Court. Both recovered firearms will be subjected to ballistic testing to determine whether they used in the commission of any other crime.
