Brazen armed robbers hit traffic department, police seek community help

Police at Mhala in Mpumalanga are requesting community members’ assistance with information that could lead to arrests of suspects who allegedly broke into the Mhala traffic department and got away with an undisclosed amount of cash.

The incident took place on Wednesday, at around midnight. 

“It is reported that three security officers were on duty at the said department patrolling the premises when they were attacked by six African males who were armed with firearms - pistols and a rifle,” said provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane.

The intruders allegedly pointed the security officers with firearms and forced them into one of the offices.

“They forcefully opened two burglar doors of the main entrance of the offices and broke all the  burglar doors, which led to a room where there was a safe. It is further reported that the suspects damaged the safe and took an undisclosed  amount of cash before fleeing the scene,” said Ndubane.

“Police urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact Detective Sergeant Collen Nyalungu on 076 936 7222. Alternatively, members of the public can anonymously call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MySAPSApp.”

Police have pledged that all received information will be treated as confidential, and callers may opt to remain anonymous.

In September 2022, IOL reported that armed assailants attacked police officers at Grootvlei police station in Mpumalanga and forcefully took three 9mm pistols, one R5 rifle and one shotgun, as well as about 180 bullets.

At the time, Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said the assailants took one pistol from a police officer, and the other firearms were seized from the safe of the police station.

“According to the report, two suspects arrived at the police station on Friday evening, 02 September 2022 around 6pm, claiming to be from Soshanguve under the pretence of reporting a domestic violence incident,” said Mohlala.

“They played victims as if they needed help from the two members who were working at the community service centre (CSC) regarding a female who was a ‘victim’ of domestic violence. The CSC's safety door was locked at that point and they initially left and only to return later around 10pm where they complained that their concern was being disregarded by the members.”

During this second visit, the group insisted that the door should be opened for them.

“The members [police officers] opened the door to obtain more information. As soon as they let them in, two suspects drew firearms and disarmed the two police officials,” said Mohlala.

jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

IOL News