Shoppers and staff at a Somerset West retail complex were left shaken on Tuesday morning after a gang of armed robbers launched a brazen daylight heist – firing shots at police in a chaotic escape attempt.
According to News24, the group of around 10 masked suspects stormed a business premises inside the busy shopping complex shortly after opening hours, brandishing firearms and demanding cash. The exact amount stolen has not been disclosed, but early reports suggest the criminals made off with a substantial sum.
In a dramatic twist, a routine police patrol happened to arrive just as the gang tried to flee through a back exit. Instead of surrendering, the suspects opened fire on the officers, unleashing a volley of gunshots that sent bystanders ducking for cover.
Miraculously, no one was hurt in the exchange, and one of the suspects – a 28-year-old man – was apprehended on the spot by responding officers.
The others managed to escape, scattering in different directions.
Police have urged anyone with information to come forward by contacting Crime Stop anonymously at 08600 10111.
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Picture: Frennie Shivambu / Gallo Images
