A gang of five armed robbers stormed a business premises on Joe Slovo (Field) Street in Durban on Wednesday, May 18, at 15:25, where they stole clothes and other items worth R100 000 at gunpoint.

SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala said a police officer was among the gang, which fled the scene in two vehicles.

“Durban Central police swiftly responded to the scene. Police were given the direction of the suspects, and the chase ensued. The suspects’ vehicle was intercepted on Fenton Lane where it was established that the driver of the vehicle was a police officer stationed at Umlazi SAPS,” said Gwala.

The driver was placed under arrest along with his accomplice.

“Further investigation led the team to Umlazi where clothing items with price tags were recovered along with a replica pistol,” said Gwala.

The same team proceeded to Glebelands Hostel where a pistol with three rounds of ammunition was recovered.

“The preliminary investigation conducted at the scene revealed that the firearm was stolen, and a case was opened in Bhekithemba. The suspect’s vehicle and four cellphones were seized for further investigation. Police are still searching for the remaining suspects,” said Gwala.

The two suspects arrested, aged 20 and 24, will appear before the Durban Magistrates’ Court for business robbery.