Stellenbosch police have issued a warning to small-business owners to be on alert following two business robberies mere minutes apart in the Khayamandi area earlier this week.
In both incidents the businesses were apparently targeted by a group of unknown men, although it’s unclear whether it’s the same group and whether the incidents are related.
Captain Nathalie Martin, spokesperson for Stellenbosch police, said the first armed robbery took place at Shop AZ 474 in Azania at 12:45 on Monday (21 August). “The complainant was inside his shop when four unknown men entered,” she said.
“One of the suspects pointed a firearm at the complainant as the men took his cellphone, cigarettes, bank card, an unknown amount of cash and a customer’s cellphone.”
The second incident transpired only 30 minutes later at the Masha Allah Shop in Watergang at 13:15. “The complainant and his friend were inside the shop when six unknown men entered the shop,” Martin related.
“Two of the men were armed with firearms and instructed the complainant to open the gate which leads to the back of the store’s counter. The suspects took cigarettes, four cellphones, a television set, a camera and an unknown amount of cash before fleeing the scene.”
In both incidents no-one was injured and no arrests have been made. Martin called on business owners to be vigilant and sharpen the security measures. “Consider installing necessary CCTV cameras and do not keep too much cash in till or safe,” she implored.
. Anyone with information is asked to call the police station on 021 809 5012/15.
