Police are investigating a business robbery that occurred at a shop in Del Judor after an armed man held up the staff and made off with cash from the till.

According to a police report, the incident took place on October 20, at around 11:50. A woman alleged that an unknown male entered the shop, pretending to buy batteries. While she was assisting him, the man suddenly pulled a firearm from his pocket and pointed it at her, demanding that she open the safe.

When the staff member was unable to open the safe, she called her sister for help. They informed the suspect that the safe could not be opened manually. The man then pressed several random buttons on the till until it opened, took an undisclosed amount of cash, and fled the scene.

No injuries were reported, and the suspect has not yet been arrested. Witbank Police spokesperson Sergeant David Ratau has urged business owners to stay vigilant and to take extra security precautions.

“Business owners should always be aware of their surroundings and take steps to protect themselves and their property. Do not keep large amounts of cash on the premises,” said Ratau.

He also shared the following crime prevention tips for business owners:

· Install CCTV cameras, alarms, and panic buttons linked to armed response or SAPS.

· Ensure adequate lighting both inside and outside the premises.

· Use strong locks, gates, and security doors to delay criminals.

· Keep minimal cash on site and vary deposit times and routes.

· Train employees on how to react during a robbery – stay calm, do not resist, and observe suspect details.

· Avoid opening or closing the business alone.

Please promptly report any suspicious activity to SAPS at 10111

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