The police in Mankweng outside Polokwane are investigating a business robbery following an incident at the Mankweng Traffic Department in the early hours of yesterday morning.

Limpopo police say security officers were on duty when a group of armed suspects wearing balaclavas emerged.

“The suspects robbed the security guards of their firearms as well as cellphones. They then proceeded to offices and broke windows to gain entry,” provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba says.

The suspects got away with five computers, a laptop, two desktops, two boxes of phase value papers, a server, a camera screen and cash.

Ledwaba says three safes were also found damaged.

“The mode of transportation used by the suspects is currently unknown. Anyone with information that can assist the police in apprehending the suspects should contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Makaepea Mamabolo, on 071 676 0002/076 102 4806, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111. Alternatively, visit [your] nearest police station or share information on the MySAPS app,” his statement reads.

Meanwhile, the Polokwane Municipality spokesperson Thipa Selala says the department will be closed until further notice.

“As the municipality works to restore operations at the centre, customers are advised to make use of alternative facilities, such as Ladanna Traffic Department or the Aganang Centre in Ceres to access essential traffic and licensing services,” Selala explains.

He adds that the municipality is working closely with law enforcement authorities to ensure a thorough investigation of the incident.