Police launch manhunt following armed robbery in Winterveldt
Anyone with information that could assist in identifying or locating the suspects, should contact the Loate SAPS.
The Loate police in the north of Pretoria are actively seeking public assistance in locating the suspects in an armed robbery that occurred recently in Winterveldt.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk said the incident has prompted a thorough investigation and a manhunt for four men who terrorised two victims during a fraudulent vehicle sale.
According to Van Dyk, the victims were lured to Mhlaombe Ext 3 for a sale of the white VW Polo they had advertised for R40 000 on social media.
“Upon arriving, the victims were initially met by a young boy who directed them to a secondary location, where their ordeal began.
“As the victims approached the new site, they sensed something was wrong and attempted to leave,” said Van Dyk.
He said they were confronted by four armed men, one of whom brandished a firearm, demanding that they follow him into the nearby bushes.
“During the robbery, the suspects stole the VW Polo and two cellphones from the victims and also attempted to force the victims to access their banking apps, but no transfer was made due to insufficient funds.
“After securing their loot, the suspects fled the scene in the stolen vehicle, leaving the victims in a state of shock and fear.”
The police have since launched a manhunt for the suspects.
They are urging anyone with information that could assist in identifying or locating the suspects, to contact the Loate SAPS.
As investigations continue, police emphasised the importance of community vigilance.
“We are reminding residents to be cautious when engaging in transactions involving goods advertised on social media.
“We advise individuals to purchase items only from reputable sources and to arrange to meet in safe locations, such as police stations. We also caution buyers against making deposits before verifying the legitimacy of the products being offered.”
Do you have more information about the story?
Please send us an email to bennittb@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.
For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord’s websites: Rekord East
For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram
