Shortly after noon on Sunday, 16 August criminals entered Cradlestone Mall with the aim of robbing a jewellery store.

Reports on social media indicate that the first shots were fired outside the store. According to eyewitnesses shoppers were held at gunpoint and told to lie down. A shootout allegedly ensued and one reaction officer who was hit in the arm had to be airlifted to hospital.

The robbers allegedly fled in two separate vehicles.

The public was informed to stay away from the scene of the incident, and social media reports suggested that traffic around the mall was heavily backed up.

Roodekrans Neighbourhood Watch has released a statement asking those who were at the mall not to take this incident lightly as many have been left traumatised by the robbery, among them some of their own members were also caught up in the scene.

“Please consider seeking trauma counselling,” read the Roodekrans Neighbourhood Watch statement, also offering their assistance to those who need it.

The News has requested more information from the police, and will give an update as soon as more details become available.