Drone helps catch armed robber
The getaway car that was used during an armed robbery in Hartswater. Picture: SAPS
AN ARMED robber was arrested near Taung during a joint search involving the SAPS from the Northern Cape and North West provinces, along with assistance from a private drone company.
Northern Cape SAPS spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said five armed men robbed a tuck shop in Bonita Park, Hartswater, on Tuesday at around 2pm.
She stated that a team, including members of the Hartswater K9 unit, Pampierstad Visible Policing and Detectives, and Taung SAPS, began searching for the suspects after receiving information that they had fled in a red Toyota Corolla heading in the direction of Taung.
“With the assistance of a drone search, a 42-year-old suspect was found hiding in the bushes and was arrested at approximately 6pm,” said Ehlers.
She added that the search team, assisted by the Northern Cape SAPS Airwing, continued to search for the remaining four suspects.
“The police are investigating cases of business robbery, malicious damage to property and attempted murder.”
Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the police at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS app.
“All information will be treated confidentially,” Ehlers assured.
The provincial commissioner of the SAPS in the Northern Cape, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, praised the inter-provincial collaboration and the support of the community, which led to the arrest.