Two foreign nationals busted for armed robbery in Bronville

A 35-year-old foreign national was woken up by a banging sound at the door of his tuck shop in Extension 18, Bronville on Thursday night, July 20.

According to the Lejweleputswa police spokesperson, captain Stephen Thakeng, an unknown man appeared and demanded cash from the business owner.

“Shocked as he was, the foreign national victim immediately blew the whistle to alert the neighbours and obtain assistance,” says Thakeng. 

Allegedly, another suspect appeared and fired three gun shots. He then commanded the victim to unlock the door.

Upon opening the door, the 35-year-old encountered duo African males, one of which was in possession of a firearm.

The latter then ordered the victim to the bedroom.

To his aid, the victim’s cousin arrived, causing the suspects to flee the scene as they thought it was the police. However, the suspects did not flee empty-handed. They robbed an undisclosed amount of cash as well as groceries.  

“In an attempt to finish what they started, the suspects returned to the shop later but fled again as they spotted the police,” informs Thakeng.

The police pursued the men, ending up with two arrests. Both arrested suspects are aged 39. The third suspect – who is armed, remains at large. 

At the crime scene, the police found a blue Samsung cell phone, a black and grey school bag with money amounting to R1400, a sledge hammer, and a Correctional Service card.

Constable Petrus Strydom of Bronville Visible Policing made the arrests.

Both suspects will appear before the Welkom Magistrate Court on Monday, July 24, to face business robbery charges.