Two foreign nationals arrested for armed robbery with unlicensed firearm

In an attempt to buy an illegal firearm, a 42-year-old woman was allegedly robbed, with the help of law authorities, two foreigners were arrested with firearm and a toy gun.

It was on Thursday, 19 August 2021, at about 10:45, when the distraught woman met up with two foreign nationals next to WZ Beronwerke in Theunissen.

She met with two foreigners and they gave her a toy gun covered in a plastic but she realized, instantly that it was not a real gun. Then one of the two men drew a real gun and pointed at her.

Her handbag with R3000 cash was robbed and suspect fled on foot.

It was at that moment when a Good Samaritan in a white bakkie came to the woman’s rescue. The man in the bakkie saw the robbery occur and chased the suspects until he got bag with the money in it and gave it back to the woman. 

The robbery was reported to the Theunissen SAPS and constables Johannes Mokoena; Nelese Nthebe and Sibongile Vumendlene also joined to chase the fleeing suspects.

The two suspects were arrested and found in possession of a 9mm Girsan with serial numbers still visible and four live ammunitions along with a toy gun.

The suspects are now facing the charges of  armed robbery; possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition; and illegal immigration.

The Major General thanked three police officers who ensured that firearrm, a toy gun were seized and foreigners were arrested.

The two foreigners will appear before the Theunissen Magistrate Court on Monday, 23 August 2021. 

The District Commissioner of Lejweleputswa, Maj Gen Lerato Molale applauded this patriotic man who saw the robbery and managed to get the handbag with cash.