Cops break into shop to rescue victim, arrest armed robbery suspects

SWIFT action by Heuningvlei SAPS Visible Policing members led to the arrest of two suspects, aged 22 and 29, following a business robbery in Lokaneng Section.

According to the victim, he was preparing to close his business on August 7 when two unknown men entered and purchased items of value. After paying and receiving their change, one suspect allegedly produced a firearm and pointed it at the victim.

The suspects reportedly forced the victim into the premises, locked themselves inside with him, tied his feet, and gagged him.

It is believed that they demanded cash and assaulted him, causing head injuries.

Alert community members who witnessed the incident promptly notified the police. Officers forced open the burglar door, rescued the 32-year-old victim, and discovered the suspects hiding inside the business.

Recovered items from the scene included an unlicensed firearm, ammunition, a panga, and an undisclosed amount of suspected stolen cash, which were found in the possession of the suspects when they were apprehended by the police.

The acting district commissioner of John Taolo Gaetsewe, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, praised the members for their rapid response in ensuring the suspects' apprehension.

Brigadier Baloyi also thanked the community members whose vigilance and swift action contributed to the success of the SAPS action. The suspects are expected to face charges for business robbery and possession of an unlicensed firearm.