VEREENIGING. – A 30-year-old male suspect has been apprehended and placed in police custody following a business robbery on Friday morning in the Vereeniging CBD.

It is reported that four armed men ambushed a store as the owner was busy opening for business,  the suspects entered the shop with him and took an undisclosed amount of money.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Sedibeng District spokesperson, Captain Fikile Funda stated that a passer-by witnessed the incident playing out and called for help from members of the community.

Funda says, “Members of the community were alerted of the business robbery and pursued suspects who fled the scene using a motor vehicle.  A chase between suspects and community ensued. At De Villiers Street, community members met with K9 unit members and alerted them that they were chasing suspects.”

Funda adds that police joined in the chase and on arrival at Van Riebeeck street, suspects abandoned their vehicle.

“A shoot out between police and suspects ensued. Three suspects fled on foot and one suspect was arrested on the spot. Police have launched a case docket of business robbery, attempted murder, possession of unlicensed  firearm and ammunition.”

Funda said the success was attained by police working together with Sekuriteit Sonder Grense, members of the community and the business community.

“The arrested suspect will soon appear before the Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court,” Funda said.