Like any other Monday the staff of three businesses in the CBD arrived at work but they were left stunned as they noticed something rather odd and strange. On December 29, 2014 at approximately 8am the police received three complaints of burglaries, at 107 Lorne Street, 109 Lorne Street and the other at American Swiss in Harding Street.

While conducting inspections on the premises, the police discovered that explosives were used in all three burglaries to bomb the doors of safes. The two of the three businesses, one a property agency and the other doctor’s surgery in Lorne Street had their doors blown open. It was also discovered that entry was gained from the back of the American Swiss building.

The three businesses were evacuated to ensure safety. The Explosive and Fingerprints Division from Pietermaritzburg were also at the scene to investigate further. They were praised for the quality of their work while dealing with the burglaries. American Swiss is currently closed and it is unknown as to when they may reopen for business.
All valuables were stolen from the jewellery store, no valuables were stolen from the property agency and they reopened for business later that day.

Electronic devices were reportedly stolen from the doctor’s surgery. The employees of these businesses are frustrated at the loss and the mess left behind, as the building at American Swiss has been damaged extensively as bricks are strewn across the room and in the toilet cubical.

“No arrests have been made at this point in time; cases of burglary have been opened and are being investigated by Estcourt Detectives. Anyone who has information is requested to forward such information to the Branch Commander Major Mkhize on 036 342 9512 and any information that can lead to the arrest and successful prosecution will be rewarded,” said police spokesperson Captain JS Sokhela.