Thugs target shopping centre
The suspects then drew their their guns and forced the guard to open the doors while being held at gunpoint.
LYDENBURG – Galaxy Entertainment Centre at The Heads Shopping Centre was robbed early on Thursday morning.
According to information received, three armed suspects apparently casually first bought some groceries at Checkers before heading to the entertainment centre just before 09:00. They stood outside the door and asked to be let in. One of the security officers at the centre told the suspects that they only open at 09:00.
The suspects then drew their guns and forced the guard to open the doors while being held at gunpoint.
The shocked employee recalled what happened in those split seconds of the robbery. “They had the gun to my head. The others were forced to the floor. The suspects had an access card and keys. They then proceeded to the safe, they simply picked it up and took it with them.”
An undisclosed amount of cash was stolen. No one else was aware of the robbery until crying employees fled the centre in a panic.
The SAPS and various security companies were quick to arrive on the scene.
According to the SAPS, the suspects also stole a red Kia Picanto.
Police were busy taking fingerprints at the centre when the newspaper arrived.
According to one of the employees who wished to remain anonymous, this had to be an inside job. “They knew what they were doing. They even had keys and an access card.” Employees were still in utter shock and crying as they related what happened. The suspects didn’t even bother to cover their faces.
According to Sgt Elizabeth Mogoa, Lydenburg SAPS spokesman, the SAPS cannot disclose any further information other than an armed robbery has taken place. “SAPS members are still on scene. Further information will be provided as soon as the investigation has been completed.”
The suspects are still at large with the Picanto. Should anyone have any information on their whereabouts, contact SAPS Lydenburg on 013-235-1311 or send an anonymous WhatsApp to the Polsec crime number on 071-623-6840.
The registration number of the vehicle is HPM 172 MP.
The suspects are armed and dangerous.
