A man heading to his workplace was robbed of cash in Mbombela after making a substantial bank withdrawal on Friday, October 9, shortly after 12:00.

“As he approached the gate, he was accosted by armed suspects who allegedly robbed him of the cash. A private security officer who is said to have witnessed the incident attempted to assist the victim, but the suspects sped off in a Toyota Corolla,” said Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo.

High-speed chase

“It was during this time when traffic officers responded swiftly and a high-speed chase ensued until Sabie, where the suspects’ vehicle crashed. One suspect was arrested while two suspects fled on foot into the bushes,” added Masondo.

He said officers from the Sabie Police Station and those assigned for Operation Vala Umgodi also responded to the scene.

Firearms charges pressed

“Upon searching the vehicle and the suspect, police found three firearms. Preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle used by the suspects was fitted with false registration number plates and that the arrested suspect is a foreign national,” said Masondo.

He said police were working with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to ascertain the status of the arrested suspect.

The suspect is expected to appear in due course in the Sabie and Nelspruit magistrates’ courts, facing charges that include robbery with a firearm, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

Police investigations are continuing and more charges may be added.