The Benoni Northerns Sports Club will, from now on, operate as a cash-free facility.

The decision comes after an armed robbery just after 08:00 on December 14, where employees of the club were held at gunpoint and tied up.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Benoni Police Station, Captain Nomsa Sekele, said five employees reported for duty when they noticed five men loitering outside the clubhouse.

“When asked about the men, the on-duty security guard confirmed that more men were sitting in two vehicles in the parking area,” said Sekele.

“While completing their duties before opening, the men allegedly accosted the employees inside the bar area and bound their hands with cable ties. The men demanded cash from the employees and fled with an undisclosed amount of money.

One vehicle was identified as a blue Toyota Etios.

A 31-year-old man who attempted to flee on foot was arrested.

“The incident is unfortunate, and staff are currently receiving counselling,” said the club’s general manager, Lindsay Oosthuizen.

“We are continually monitoring risks and have therefore decided to immediately transition to a cashless business.

We thank our members and patrons for their understanding.”

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