Ethiopian-owned shop bombed in Jerusalema Trust in Masoyi
The victims, who were assaulted by the suspects, sustained some serious injuries. The suspects fled the scene with R6 000 cash and cigarettes worth R4 000.
Two Ethiopians escaped death after their shop was bombed by unknown suspects, who robbed them of cash and cigarettes. The incident occurred in Jerusalema Trust in Masoyi on January 18 at about 03:00.
No arrest has been made yet. According to the spokesperson of the Masoyi Police Station, Sergeant Nanikie Nonyane, it was alleged that the victims were asleep inside the shop when they were attacked by unknown suspects who blew up the front door.
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“The victims were assaulted by the suspects, and they sustained some serious injuries. They were rushed to the clinic for medical treatment. They also said they were robbed of R6 000 cash and cigarettes worth R4 000.
It is still unknown how many suspects there were and what they used to flee the scene, as the victims said they did not recognise them or see what car they were using,” said Nonyane.
She also said the Masoyi police are currently investigating a case of business robbery.
The shop owner, Lamibamo Labess, told Hazyview Herald that he is lucky to have come out of the ordeal alive, since the suspects were heavily armed and aggressive. They were kicking them and hitting them with their guns.
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“We were ambushed when they knew that most people were sleeping and there were no cars passing on the road, since the shop is situated next to the R536. It is also difficult to remember their faces as they ordered us to lie on the floor. While some of the suspects were looting cigarettes and money, the others were busy assaulting us,” he said.
He added that he is not yet sure if they will reopen the shop.
The Masoyi SAPS is calling on anyone with any information that may assist the police with the investigation, to call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111. Alternatively, members of the public can send information via the My SAPS app.
