Two suspects in their forties have been arrested and an unlicensed firearm recovered by the Linden police after a gang of six armed men attempted to rob a Cresta Shopping Centre store.
Linden police spokesperson Constable Takalani Matumba said that the incident occurred at approximately 9am on 14 September.
“Our preliminary investigation indicates that six armed suspects entered the shop and threatened the employees with firearms. One of the employees screamed for help and the suspects ran out of the shop without taking anything.”
Security guards responded and chased the suspects who ran on foot into a business complex in Fairland.
“The suspects hijacked two vehicles inside the business complex but they were cornered by the police and security guards before they could drive out. Two suspects were arrested and an unlicensed firearm was recovered, while the other four fled the scene,” said Matumba.
A white Volkswagen Caddy fitted with false registration plates was found in the mall’s parking lot and is suspected to have been used by the suspects.
Police are still searching for the remaining four suspects that fled the scene.
“No injuries were reported and we are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help apprehend the other suspects to please call the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information can also be given anonymously via MySAPS App that can be downloaded from any smartphone,” concluded Matumba.
