Matric learner arrested for business robberies in KZN

A 23-year-old matric learner was arrested yesterday at a school in KwaDabeka, KZN, in connection with a spate of business robberies.

Pinetown SAPS communications officer Jennifer Naidu says members of the Pinetown Trio Task Team have been tracing three suspects who were terrorising Caversham businesses.

Two weeks ago, the three men robbed a shop in Caversham and fled with R7 000 cash and cigarettes.

Naidu says the most recent incident happened on Wednesday when the suspects allegedly robbed another shop in the Caversham area.

Two of the suspects had firearms.

“They threatened the complainant with firearms and demanded cellphones. They also took cigarettes and R3 000 cash. The value of stolen items is estimated at R20 000,” says Naidu.

She says no shots were fired and no injuries were reported.

After receiving information that one suspect was a learner at one of the KwaDabeka schools, police went to the school and spoke to the principal.

“They waited for him to finish his exams before approaching him.”

According to Naidu, there is clear video footage of the robberies and the suspect committing the crime.

“He was arrested and charged with business robbery. Further investigation led to the recovery of the stolen cigarettes, as well as the clothes the suspect was wearing when he committed the crime in Caversham.

“Police also discovered that the suspect, with his two accomplices, who are still at large, recently robbed some shops in the Pinetown and Westville areas.”

The learner is expected to appear in court on Monday.