On Thursday morning, 11 August 2022, two cigarette delivery workers were ambushed by six armed suspects travelling in a Quantum taxi who loaded their goods and the two workers in their vehicle and fled the scene.
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The 54-year-old driver and his assistant were released unharmed after their vehicle was ambushed in Brooklyn and they were forced to hand over their goods before being kidnapped, reports IOL.
Police say the men were later dropped off in the Milnerton by the suspects and the two cigarette delivery workers were able to report the incident to the authorities. Police spokesperson Captain Frederick van Wyk stated that the incident took place shortly after 11am.
“Maitland police opened cases of armed robbery and kidnapping after an incident on Thursday at about 11.10am at Justin Road, Brooklyn where six armed suspects jumped out of a white quantum bus threatening the driver and assistant, and robbed a cigarette truck of an undisclosed amount of cigarettes,” van Wyk said.
In addition, van Wyk said the victims were then taken back to the crime scene where experts and detectives combed the area for further possible clues. He added by commenting: “Cape Town Organised Crime Investigations will investigate the case.” Furthermore, the police said that the unknown suspects fled the area and are yet to be arrested.
Recently, similar incidents have been reported in Hanover Park. Philippi police made arrests in Hanover Park, reportedly also related to three cigarette delivery robbers, just three moths ago.
During the incident, police heard gunshots in the vicinity and responded. The officers arrived while the trio was in the process of robbing a cigarette delivery van and apprehended the suspects before they could flee the scene.
According to the police, boxes of various tobacco brands with an estimated value of R500 000 were stolen by residents during the commotion which resulted in the arrest of two people during patrols who were found in possession of suspected stolen property.
Police have also urged anyone with information on the Brooklyn incident to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
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Picture: SAPS/Facebook