Brave actions by two civilians led to the apprehension of one armed robbery suspect and the confiscation of a firearm yesterday afternoon in the Mount Road policing area.
It is alleged that on Sunday, October 25 at about 16:10, the 25-year-old complainant approached the intersection of Harrower Road and Mount Road on foot when she was accosted by two unknown men. One of them produced a firearm and robbed her of her cell phone worth R500.
According to police spokesperson, Col. Priscilla Naidu, the woman screamed as they ran off but managed to flag down a passing vehicle and hastily explained what happened.
“The 18-year-old passenger saw the fleeing suspects and chased them on foot. The one suspect fired shots at him. Meanwhile, the 35-year-old driver pursued the suspect with his car and knocked him over. Police were summoned to the scene,” Naidu said.
She added that upon arrival, police found a 9mm pistol and ammunition and the stolen cell phone in possession of the suspect.
“He sustained multiple injuries and was taken to hospital for medical attention. He was treated and discharged into police custody.”
The 25-year-old suspect, from Zwide, is detained on charges of attempted murder, armed robbery, illegal possession of a firearm and illegal possession of ammunition. The firearm was not reported stolen.
“The second arrest is imminent,” Naidu said.
Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Maj. Gen. Thembisile Patekile, commended the brave actions of the two civilian men who came to the woman’s assistance. “While we cannot turn a blind eye to crimes committed in our presence, members of the public must also be cautious when approaching suspects.
“Criminals are often armed and will not hesitate, as in this case, to use it to either complete their commission of crime, to get away or both. We are pleased that no innocent person was harmed during this incident,” Patekile added.
