POLOKWANE – Preliminary investigations into the armed robbery at the entrance to the Thornhill Village Estate on Tuesday (November 23) revealed that R260 000 in cash was taken from the victim’s vehicle.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the 45-year-old victim had withdrawn the large amount of money from a bank at Mall of The North around 10:15 before he was followed by three unknown suspects to the estate.

“The victim was unaware that he was being followed,” Ledwaba’s statement read.

Upon arrival at the estate entrance, the victim was confronted by two armed suspects, while the third remained in a white getaway vehicle.

“The two suspects robbed the victim of a bag containing the money and a wrist watch,” he said.

The trio then fled the scene and Ledwaba said the victim gave chase until Die Meer Street.

“The suspects fired shots in the victim’s direction and he then retreated without injuries to report the incident to the police.”

Kevin Smit, Urban Africa Security Services’ area manager confirmed to Review-Observer that the suspects were cornered along Chroom Street and that they fled on foot.

Read more: WATCH: Armed robbers target motorist at luxury estate entrance

Meanwhile, the provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe urged people, especially business owners and stockvel and social club beneficiaries, to not withdraw large amounts of money as the festive season approaches.

Hadebe said people should make use of electronic transactions to avert being victims of these kind of incidents.

“Criminals are ready to benefit from the hard earned money from unsuspecting individuals or social groups who by all means will become victims for physically risking their lives rather than applying these safety measures” she said.

Ledwaba encouraged anyone who can provide information on the suspects to contact the Investigating Officer Sergeant Maphuta James Ngoepe on 082 685 9507, the crime stop number 0860 0100, the nearest police station or the My SAPSApp.