POLOKWANE – The Limpopo police have launched a manhunt for four to five armed suspects following a business robbery at a high-profile retail shop in the Polokwane CBD on Tuesday (September 2).

The suspects, who allegedly spoke isiZulu, stormed the store at about 17:30 as employees were preparing to close for the day.

According to a police report, the armed men forced staff members and two customers to the back of the shop before looting clothing, shoes, and an undisclosed amount of cash.

“The stolen property is estimated to be worth more than R700 000. The suspects fled the scene in an unknown motor vehicle. A case of business robbery has been opened at the Polokwane SAPS and has been transferred to the Provincial Tracking Team for further investigation,” the Limpopo police spokesperson, Col Malesela Ledwaba said.

This is the second retail store robbery in the Polokwane CBD in less than a month.

On August 16, four armed suspects were involved in a business robbery with a similar modus operandi.

At the time, it was reported that one of the suspects forced employees back into the store while three armed men entered. The suspects instructed one of the employees to open the safe as they were looking for money.

The suspects stole accessories, cellphones, Bluetooth speakers and snacks before fleeing the scene in a silver Polo hatchback.

Read more: 4 armed men rob Polokwane clothing store of R331k

On whether the two robberies are linked, Ledwaba told the Polokwane Review-Observer: “We are investigating any possibility for now. We do not need to speculate.”

He urged anyone with information to contact Sergeant Noko Mashitiso on 082 565 8463 or Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola on 082 749 2233.

“Information can also be shared anonymously via the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App.”