Police hunt for 13 who burgled Riverside Mall clothing store after hours
The store's name is being withheld upon request, and it declined to comment.
The police have launched a massive manhunt for 13 men who burgled a clothing store in Riverside Mall in the early evening of Sunday August 29.
These men, some of whom were armed, allegedly entered the mall after closing time and ransacked a high-end clothing store at 18:23.
Riverside Mall’s marketing manager, Nomfundo Nhlapo, said there were fortunately no customers or staff around when the incident took place, as the mall was closed for trading. “There was no cash on the premises, however, the burglars fled with some stock in three getaway cars.
Both SAPS and the mall security responded immediately. The burglary is currently being investigated by police.”
The provincial police spokesperson, Col Donald Mdhluli, said the police were searching for these men. “According to the report, the store was locked, and later in the evening a report came through from personnel of a certain security company about the said burglary. It was discovered that the door was forced open and some clothing items were stolen by the suspects.
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“No one has been arrested yet, and the Nelspruit police urged members of the public to assist with information on the whereabouts of the suspects, by contacting Det Col Ernest Maoka on 082 318 9843.”
He said the community may also call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or send information via the My SAPS app. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
Hi-Tech’s operational manager, Callum mac Pherson, warned that there would most likely be a spike in business robberies from about October to mid-November this year, based on past crime trends. Mac Pherson said armed robberies have increased in the last two weeks, with criminals targeting businesses, looking for large amounts of cash, cell phones and other valuables.
“Please secure your businesses and homes during the day and night, and be aware of your surroundings. Please activate your alarms. If you do not have an alarm or early warning system in place, please contact us to access your property,” he said.
