Alleged robbers arrested while being cleansed by a traditional healer in KwaDukuza
When they saw the police, they ran into a nearby dam, dumping a bag thought to contain money and firearms.
Seven alleged robbers were arrested while being cleansed by a traditional healer in KwaDukuza on Tuesday, North Coast Courier reports.
According to provincial police spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele, the suspects, between the age of 30 and 40, entered a business premises at the Upper Tugela Bergville area and robbed employees of an undisclosed amount of money.
They stole the money and drove away in their gateway vehicle.
“The Okhalamba police received information that the suspects, who were travelling in 2 vehicles, were seen at a traditional healer’s residence for cleansing and protection.
“Police went to the traditional healer’s homestead in KwaDukuza where they spotted the said vehicle and approached them.
“When they saw the police, they ran towards the Woodstock Dam and jumped into the water.
“Five suspects were arrested in the river and 2 were arrested at the homestead,” said Mbele.
A 9mm pistol and folded packet from a security company were recovered.
Police divers are still searching for a bag, possibly containing money and firearms, that was thrown into the water during their escape attempt.
Mbele said the suspects may also be linked to two other robberies, which took place in Ladysmith and Winterton.
It is alleged that on July 5, a group of armed men entered a shop on Springfield Road in Winterton and demanded cash and cellphones from the employees.
“At gunpoint, they removed cellphones and an undisclosed amount of money before they fled in their gateway bakkie.
“A case of robbery was opened at the Winterton police station for investigation.”
Later on that day, security guards were travelling along the R616 when an unknown vehicle blocked their path.
“The occupants of the said vehicle shot at the security vehicle and as a result, three tyres burst.
“The suspects instructed the security guard to open the door and deprived him of his service firearm.
“The security guard heard a loud explosion and he observed the suspects removing cash from the vehicle.”
The robbers escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash.
A case of robbery was opened at Ladysmith police station.
The accused will appear in court soon, facing charges of robbery and illegal possession of firearms.
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