Manhunt launched after two gas stations robbed

The Provincial Organized Crime has launched a manhunt to trace three African male suspects after allegedly robbing two garages in Welkom.

On Saturday, 26 March, the first incident took place at around 20:20 at a garage in Koppie Alleen. Three African men entered the premises. At the time, the shift manager was at the kiosk and one of the suspects had a firearm.

The suspect then demanded cash from two cash registers. Apparently, trio suspects took three minutes to orchestrate the robbery and fled the scene with the loot. Furthermore, they allegedly took the complainant’s Polo bag as well.

According to Lejweleputswa police spokesperson, Captain Stephen Thakeng, he second robbery occurred at around 21:15 at a garage in Dagbreek. The shift manager was serving clients when three African men approached her and threatened to open the kiosk.

“They demanded and took cash at gun point from two cash registers. They also demanded cartoons of cigarettes and fled.” added Thakeng.

The suspect with a firearm and pepper spray wore a red Kappa tracksuit top and light-grey pants. Suspect two also wore grey pants with a black jacket and a black cap. The third culprit wore black pants, a green jacket and a red cap.

“All these suspects were reported to have a Lesotho accent and matched suspects description from the first incident,” Thakeng said.

The police registered robbery cases for further investigation. Anyone with information regarding the wanted suspects ma contact Detective Sergeant Sechaba Machalotsa from Provincial Organised Crimes on 0737291732. Alternatively, they may use the police emergency number, 0860010111.