MEYERTON – Like a movie scene, an armed robbery played out at the Model Bottle Store Depot in Kookrus. This comes after three gun-wielding suspects stormed the store, ordered terrified shoppers and staff on the ground before taking off with cash and cellphones.

The brazen robbery unfolded on September 9, around 19:45, at the corner of Pierneef Boulevard and Andrew Murray Road.

According to Meyerton police spokesperson Constable Nompumelelo Zazini, the ordeal began when a security guard ran inside the shop, warning that they were under attack.

Seconds later, three suspects, believed to be Zulu-speaking men, burst into the shop, pointing firearms and demanding money, the safe keys, and cellphones.

“One of the female employees refused to surrender and was hit on the head with the back of the firearm. Money was taken from the till, and cellphones were taken from the customers and the complainant,” she said.

Zazini said the suspects looted R10 000 in cash from the till along with cellphones belonging to staff and customers.

The drama escalated outside when the fleeing suspects opened fire, letting off about four shots.

“A Wesizwe Protection Services vehicle and another car were riddled with bullets before suspects drove away in a 7-seater vehicle,” said Zazini.

Two female employees who sustained head and body injuries were rushed to the hospital for treatment. A case of business robbery was opened, and investigations are underway.