PHALABORWA – A 36-year-old man has been arrested in connection with an armed robbery in Giyani, as police continue their search for a second suspect who remains at large.

The arrest follows a swift response by community members and police after a 31-year-old man from Homulani, Phalaborwa, was robbed at gunpoint on Saturday afternoon.

Victim tied up and left in bushy area

According to police, the victim had accepted a lift from two unknown men driving a grey VW Polo. The suspects allegedly diverted from the expected route and drove the victim to a secluded bushy area at Nkomo 22A in Giyani.

There, he was robbed of his cellphone, cash, bank card, and ID before being tied up and left helpless.

The victim was later assisted by a passing motorist, who alerted members of the community in the Dzumeri area.

CPF member wounded 

Acting swiftly, residents and members of the Community Policing Forum (CPF) mobilised and began searching for the suspects.

Their efforts paid off when, at around 15:30, the suspects were spotted at a local supermarket. One suspect was allegedly attempting to use the victim’s bank card when he was confronted and apprehended by community members.

However, the situation escalated when the second suspect, who was waiting in the vehicle, fired a shot and wounded a CPF member before fleeing the scene in the VW Polo.

Police trace and arrest one suspect

Police launched a coordinated operation involving multiple specialised units, including tracking teams, the flying squad, K9 unit, detectives and Farm Watch.

The suspect was later traced along the R71 near Haenertsburg, where he abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, leaving behind a female passenger.

Authorities recovered a 9mm pistol with ammunition, a replica firearm, several cellphones, and clothing believed to be stolen.

The arrested suspect appeared before the Giyani Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, April 7.

Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe has praised the community for its decisive role in assisting police, highlighting the importance of collaboration in the fight against crime.

Police investigations are ongoing.