UITENHAGE - KWANOBUHLE SPAZA SHOP ROBBERS GET INTO HIGH SPEED CHASE & SHOOTOUT WITH POLICE

Police arrested a 25-year-old robbery suspect and recovered a getaway vehicle after five men targeted a spaza shop in KwaNobuhle today, 12 November 2019.

On Tuesday, 12 November 2019 around 4am, it is alleged that five men, at least one of them armed with a firearm, tied a rope at the door of a spaza shop in Ben Stungu Street, KwaNobuhle and pulled it open with a vehicle.  A 55-year-old shop owner, who was asleep inside the shop was awakened by the sound of an opening door.

One of the suspects held him at gunpoint, while others ransacked the store.  The suspects managed to steal cash, cigarettes and airtime vouchers before fleeing in a getaway vehicle, a silver Daihatsu that was also used to open the door.  Immediately, the police were alerted, and the vehicle’s description was circulated through all police communication channels. 

An hour later, police spotted the vehicle driving in Jabavu Road, KwaNobuhle and a high speed chase ensued. At Philemon Kona Street, KwaNobuhle, a shootout ensued between police and suspects. One suspect was arrested, and the other four managed to evade arrest.  A getaway vehicle was confiscated for further investigation.  No person was injured during the incident.

Police are urging anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects to contact the KwaNobuhle Detectives standby number (Serious Violent Crimes) at 082 319 9223. The information may also be shared anonymously via Crime Stop 08600 10111.  A 25-year-old suspect is due to appear in the KwaNobuhle Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 14 November 2019 on charges of business robbery.