Two armed robbers were arrested after robbing a clothing store in Zandspruit.

According to the Honeydew CPF public relations officer, Michael Steyn, the incident took place shortly after 10:00 on Sunday, April 12, when five armed men entered the store and robbed it of an undisclosed amount of cash and cellphones.

“As robbers exited the store, they encountered a patrol vehicle from the Honeydew SAPS and opened fire, thinking the officers were responding to the robbery,” said Steyn.

Police immediately called for back-up, and several law enforcement units responded, including the Gauteng Flying Squad, the JMPD, and the police’s Airwing.

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The office of the Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Gauteng confirmed that the robbers held employees and a security officer at gunpoint before fleeing with cash and cellphones.

A co-ordinated response led to a foot pursuit, resulting in the apprehension of two of the robbers. Police also recovered a firearm with ammunition, as well as the stolen cellphones. Steyn confirmed that the suspects are facing multiple charges, including business robbery, illegal possession of ammunition, and attempted murder.

“This operation highlights the effectiveness of co-ordinated teamwork among law enforcement agencies. We are also glad that there were no serious injuries to any of our members,” he added.

The provincial commissioner, General Tommy Mthombeni, commended the members for their swift reaction and for maintaining visibility in public areas.

The suspects are expected to make their first court appearance in the Roodepoort Magistrate’s Court today, April 13.