Police are urging businesses to be vigilant and take extra
precautionary measures when trading and transporting stock after purchasing.
This alert comes after two people were shot dead in their
shop in Vuku Street, New Brighton, last night (Friday). It is alleged that at approximately
19:30, the two victims, aged between 23 and 25 years old, were inside
the shop when two suspects entered and shot them both. One victim passed
away at the scene while the other passed away on the way to hospital.
Groceries, cigarettes and cash were also taken during the incidents. The value
of the stolen items is unknown at this stage.
According to police spokesperson, Col. Priscilla Naidu, the
community immediately notified police of the shooting and New Brighton police,
accompanied by Public Order Police, responded quickly. “Police chased after the
suspects that fled in a white Mazda bakkie. The suspects abandoned the
bakkie in Dyanti Street, KwaZakhele and fled on foot. All the groceries were in
the vehicle. A 7.65 pistol was found around the corner from the shop where the
Mazda sped away,” she said.
New Brighton detectives are investigating two cases of
murder and one of business robbery.
In another incident yesterday, a 38-year-old shop owner was
fatally shot and his assistant wounded when they were robbed at approximately
11:30 in Khama Street, KwaNobuhle.
“It is alleged that the shop owner was busy offloading stock
for his shop when three armed men approached him. The suspects ordered the
owner to open his shop. A fight broke out between the owner and the suspects,
which resulted in his killing. Upon hearing the shots, his assistant rushed out
and was also shot. He was admitted to a local hospital. Cash and groceries were
taken. The bakkie was recovered not far from the scene,” Naidu explained.
“The names of the deceased in both incidents are withheld
until their next-of-kin are informed,” she said.
“Police are urging businesses, especially small traders who
personally drive to buy their stock, to always be wary of their surroundings.
Carrying large amounts of cash should be avoided and electronic transactions
are strongly advised.”
Source: SAPS media statement
