A joint crime intelligence led operation has led to the arrest of seven armed robbers in Groblersdal, Limpopo on Saturday. Police received a tip off about a business robbery and members from the Tactical Response Team (TRT) laid in wait for the robbers to arrive.
Five of the seven suspects were seen alighting from their vehicle and proceeding to the business premises. On noticing the suspects the police warned them to surrender. However, they retaliated and started firing at the TRT. A gun battle ensued leaving one suspect wounded in the arm. The other four suspects surrendered and subsequent investigations led to the arrest of a security guard and business assistant believed to be part of the group.
During the shooting, a 62 years old taxi driver was allegedly shot in the face, while he was filling his petrol tank, by one of the suspect. He was rushed to Groblersdal hospital and is in a stable but serious condition.
Meanwhile, three illegal firearms with ammunition and a blue VW Polo were confiscated by the police. The injured suspect was treated at the local hospital and later discharged. The suspects are aged between 20 and 49. Four of them are from Gauteng the other three are locals. They will appear at the Groblersdal Magistrate Court soon facing charges of armed robbery and possession of unlicensed firearms. Police investigations continue.
Enquiries:
Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi
Cell: 082 373 2408
