Five suspected business robbers were cornered and arrested in Brakpan yesterday afternoon (Wednesday), following a robbery at a Pep store in Nigel.

The robbery took place at about 2pm.

According to Capt Joep Joubert, spokesperson for the Brakpan Police Station commander, the gang was spotted after the robbery loading bags from a white Toyota Avanza into a Toyota Quantum,  by an off-duty SAPS Flying Squad member, near the Nigel Cemetery.

“He thought it was suspicious and informed an officer on duty,” said Joubert.

“He followed them as they drove off on the R23 in the direction of Brakpan.”

The EMPD Intervention Unit, First Responder Unit, Geluksdal and Brakpan Precinct officers joined forces with SAPS members to pursue the suspects.

“The suspects suddenly stopped their vehicle at the intersection of the R23 and Koot Street, and the driver got out” said Joubert.

“Police members ordered the other four suspects to get out of the car, which they did.”

Three of the suspects then bolted on foot into the nearby veld.

With the assistance of a SAPS chopper, the trio were soon rounded up.

Inside the getaway vehicle, police found numerous cellphones suspected to have been taken during the robbery.

Police also recovered four 9mm pistols.

Records show that the Toyota Quantum, which has not been reported as stolen, is registered to an individual who resides in Polokwane.

The suspects, aged 31, 32, 33, 38 and 41,  face charges of armed robbery as well as possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

Also read: Dalpark resident shoots suspected robber

Oupa (71) beskerm kleindogters, skiet inbreker

Cornered robbery suspects open fire