VEREENIGING – Sedibeng Cluster police have refuted claims that a businessman who shot and killed an alleged assailant during a business robbery was arrested.

On March 28, three armed robbers attempted to rob a filling station on the corner of Voortrekker and Victoria Street.

According to reports, the owner opened fire on the robbers, who fled the scene with a hijacked vehicle.

Two of the suspects managed to escape, and one died on the scene due to gunshot wounds.

Following the dramatic scenes, a social media video circulated, claiming the business owner was arrested on charges of murder.

Ster followed up on the video with Sergeant Thembeka Maxambela, who vehemently denied the claims.

Dr. Gordon Lesley ‘Rolls’, working as a paralegal, shared the video Victim arrested for protecting himself from robbers. SA under siege by ego and corruption.

The attorney said on video that he tried to help a client and a friend.

“The amazing part is that SAPS came there and found the guy who is a foreign national.”

Rolls said police took statements from his client and left.

“At about 16:00, a captain from Vereeniging then decided to go and arrest my guy for murder because a case of murder was now opened,” he said.

“As I speak to you, my guy is still in custody.”

Maxambela confirmed that no suspect had been arrested. She further said that the businessman acted in self-defense.

A manhunt is underway to trace the remaining suspects that fled the scene.

“Police are actively searching for the remaining two suspects, who are still at large. A case of business robbery is under investigation, and police are reviewing CCTV footage and other evidence to aid in the identification and apprehension of the suspects,” Maxambela said.

Police urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and contact Vereeniging SAPS or the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111. All information provided will be treated confidentially.