A shop assistant at a business on Murchison Street, in his late forties, was held up and shot this afternoon.
According to Police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Simon Luthuli; “Two suspects entered the victim’s business at approximately 4:30pm attempting to rob him. One of the suspects barred the door, while the other held up the victim at gunpoint.”
The victim was reportedly standing behind the counter at the time. He resisted and shouted for help. A single shot was fired by the suspect, which grazed the victim’s forehead.
The extent of the injury sustained by the victim is unknown at this point. The victim was rushed to MediClinic Newcastle for treatment. However, it is believed that the victim escaped serious injury. No other injuries were sustained.
The suspects fled the scene on foot, in what witnesses report to have been in the direction of the taxi rank, the K9 unit’s Warrant Officer, Sasha Naidoo, responded to the call and gave chase, no arrest have been made at this point.
W/O Luthuli confirmed a case of attempted robbery and murder has been opened.
Police are currently investigating the matter and request any members of the public with information concerning the case to come forward.
