Mall robbers still at large

The search continues for the remaining suspects involved in a business robbery at Jewellery Club, East Rand Mall, on June 18 (Father’s Day).

On the same day of the robbery, Gauteng Police arrested two suspects and recovered high-calibre firearms, ammunition, getaway cars and explosives.

According to provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, the number of suspects involved cannot be confirmed at this stage, but are believed to be more than 10.

Masondo said at the time it is alleged that about eight suspects entered the jewellery shop and held up the employees at gunpoint. They took an undisclosed amount of jewellery.

“As they were getting out of the mall, suspects fired shots randomly. Mall security and police gave chase as the suspects sped off in getaway cars,” said Masondo.

The high-speed chase continued to Alexandra, where one of the getaway cars was cornered and one suspect was arrested.

“The suspect led the police to two houses in Alexandra, where the second suspect was arrested and three other getaway cars were recovered.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the getaway cars, an Audi A4, was reported to be hijacked in Limpopo Province early this year,” he added.

The suspects were found with two rifles, a pistol, ammunition, and explosives.

One of the recovered firearms is an R5 rifle, which according to a well-placed source, are only distributed among SAPS members.

The Boksburg Advertiser asked Masondo whether the rifle was reported stolen or still belonged to a police officer, but did not receive feedback on this.

The arrested suspects will be charged with business robbery, possession of unlicensed firearms and possession of suspected hijacked vehicles, among other crimes.

Michael Ribi, operations manager at Jewellery Club, told the Boksburg Advertiser it was traumatising for the staff.
East Rand Mall marketing manager Fradene Smith said mall security acted promptly.

“The police were immediately contacted. Management at East Rand Mall would like to assure the public of our ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and security of our shoppers,” she added.

Police are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation or assist in the apprehension of the other suspects to call the nearest police station or call crime stop on 08600 10111.

Information can also be given anonymously via MySAPS App that can be downloaded from any smartphone.

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