VIDEO: Armed robber shoots accomplice during Polokwane CBD robbery
During an armed business robbery near Excelsior Street, a trio of suspects absconded with an undisclosed amount of money from the cash registers, leaving the injured individual behind.
POLOKWANE – The police, in conjunction with members of the South African Defence Force (SANDF), initiated the Vala Umgodi Operation in response to the brazen use of prohibited firearms, frequently employed in criminal activities across the province.
This operation involves active stop-and-search measures in select districts.
The necessity for such action became apparent due to a series of reported incidents involving prohibited firearms, with Polokwane notably contributing to the statistics.
The latest incident, reported by the Polokwane Observer, involved an armed business robbery that took a dangerous turn.
During the incident, which occurred near Excelsior Street in the CBD on May 8, one of the perpetrators shot his accomplice, resulting in the latter being hospitalised in the intensive care unit.
Col Malesela Ledwaba stated that one of the armed men demanded money at gunpoint, but an employee managed to close the steel door.
“A scuffle ensued between the suspect with the firearm and the employee, resulting in a shot being fired and one of the suspects being injured. Despite this, the perpetrators managed to abscond with an undisclosed amount of money from the cash registers, leaving the injured individual behind.”
Three out of four suspects fled the scene, leaving law enforcement authorities seeking assistance in apprehending them.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact investigating officer Warrant Officer Joseph Malebana.
Recent editions of the Polokwane Observer have highlighted a surge in armed robberies, hijackings, and other firearm-related crimes in various areas, including the Peter Mokaba precinct, Savannah Mall, and Westenburg.
Additionally, a separate report this week by Limpopo police spokesperson Brig Hlulani Mashaba indicated the seizure of two firearms as part of ongoing collaborative efforts across the province.
This follows last week’s confiscation of five unlicensed firearms and 24 rounds of live ammunition in Groblersdal, facilitated by a tip-off regarding planned farm attacks.
Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe emphasised the importance of community support in their mission, encouraging citizens to provide safe tip-offs regarding illegal firearm possession and other criminal activities.
