Nine men aged between 18 and 23 have been arrested in connection with alleged armed robberies at two shops in the Tsolo Central Business District (CBD), Eastern Cape.
According to South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Captain Welile Matyolo, the suspects allegedly carried out the robberies simultaneously on Tuesday, before fleeing towards Qumbu in a Toyota bakkie.
“Tsolo police were informed of the robberies and requested assistance from Qumbu police. The suspects were cornered in a house in Qumbu while counting the money they had allegedly robbed,” said Matyolo.
Police recovered a 9mm pistol with an erased serial number and ammunition, as well as a replica 9mm toy gun.
Five cellphones allegedly stolen during a previous business robbery in Qumbu were also recovered.
Matyolo said investigations were continuing to determine whether the suspects could be linked to other crimes.
“Investigations are ongoing to establish if the suspects can be linked to other crimes that have been committed,” he said.
The suspects are facing charges including armed business robbery, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition and possession of suspected stolen property.
OR Tambo District Commissioner Major General Norman Modishana commended police officers from neighbouring stations for their collaboration in the arrests, highlighting the importance of a united approach in fighting crime.
IOL News
Xolile Mtembu
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