Goods that were recovered from the suspects. Picture: SAPS
Two individuals who are aged 51 and 34 were apprehended for allegedly robbing a grocery store delivery van in Botshabelo, in the Free State.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson, Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli said that on November 5, at 1pm, an armed robbery was reported in which four unknown individuals took a White Toyota Hilux bakkie full of merchandise at gunpoint.
Authorities obtained intelligence-led information that foodstuffs were delivered to a residence in the R section.
“Information was operationalised and the hijacked vehicle, a Toyota Hilux was recovered after it was found abandoned near a school in Section M,” Kareli said.
The manhunt continued, and a white Polo, reportedly involved in the hijacking, was discovered in Section T; members swiftly responded to the area, and the car was located.
A high-speed car pursuit began, and the driver of the white polo crashed with a police bakkie before being apprehended at the Re a hola complex and arrested.
“A preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle was allegedly used in the commission of other robberies in Botshabelo. A case of reckless and negligent driving was opened for further investigation and three more suspects are still at large,” said Kareli.
While members were detained, they got intelligence-led information regarding the whereabouts of another suspect, who was apprehended at a residence in the R sector.
Members also discovered food and a toy pistol thought to have been used during the heist.
Both suspects were detained for possession of suspected stolen items and armed robbery; two more suspects will be apprehended soon. They will appear at Botshabelo Magistrate Court soon.
IOL