Robbery ends in shootout, three nabbed

Three suspects were arrested, following a shootout in Edenvale, for a Meadowdale business robbery.

According to Bedfordview Police Station’s acting station commander Colonel Sinothi Ndaba, a suspect entered a Meadowdale store, pointed a firearm at one of the employees and instructed them to lie on the ground.

After doing so, the suspect were joined by his accomplices.

One employee was instructed to open the store’s safe.

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“Suspects took new cellphones and over R20 000 in cash from the store.

“They fled towards Edenvale in a black Mercedes Benz,” said Ndaba.

The Edenvale SAPS noticed the Mercedes driving suspiciously and tried to stop the vehicle.

Edenvale Police Station’s communication officer Warrant Officer Mashile said officers conducting crime prevention patrols identified the Mercedes.

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“The police stopped the vehicle and after doing so one of the vehicle’s occupants exited the car and pointed a firearm at the officers,” said Mashile.

“The members responded by pointing their weapons at the suspect, who retreated into the Mercedes.”

Mashile said this led to a pursuit through Edenvale.

He said the suspects abandoned their vehicle after colliding with a property on Voortrekker Avenue. The police called for backup.

“Three suspects were cornered and arrested after trying to flee to another property,” said Mashile.

Ndaba confirmed the arrests. He said the cash and the phones were found in the suspects’ possession.

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“Police also recovered two firearms, which had their serial numbers removed and 26 rounds of ammunition,” said Ndaba.

Ndaba said police are in the process of registering attempted murder, business robbery, possession of stolen items and illegal firearm cases.