Four suspects arrested for business robbery at Joburg Mall

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Four suspects were arrested following a business break-in and theft incident at Steller Mall, Crown Mines on Thursday.

According to the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), officers from the Tactical Response Unit were on routine crime prevention patrols in the area when they received information regarding a business robbery in progress at Jupiter Street.

“Upon arrival at the scene, officers were alerted by a mall security guard to suspicious activity involving three males who work in the same centre.

“The security guard explained that the trio had been observed entering a restricted storage facility, without authorization. Upon questioning, they were unable to provide a valid reason for their presence in the area.

“Further investigation, including the review of security footage, confirmed that the three suspects were not authorized to access the facility and were suspected of being involved in a theft, JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla confirmed.

Fihla added that it was subsequently discovered that a fourth accomplice was waiting in a white Mercedes Benz Sprinter in the mall parking lot.

He continued; “This vehicle was believed to be intended for the transportation of stolen goods. With the assistance of the mall security personnel, the four suspects were apprehended on the scene.

“The suspects were subsequently charged with business break-in and theft at Langlaagte SAPS and they were detained at Brixton SAPS.”

The recovered vehicle was booked at the SAPS Aeroton vehicle pound.

Fihla commended the swift response of the officers and the cooperation of the mall security personnel in this matter.

“We remain committed to preventing and combating crime and ensuring the safety of our communities,” he concluded.

Foreign national arrested for possession of illicit cigarettes

Meanwhile, police in Ficksburg arrested a foreign national for corruption after discovery of illicit cigarettes worth over R1.5 million.

According to Free State police spokesperson, Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli information was received about the delivery of illicit cigarettes to take place in the border town. 

“When searching the premises, 119 boxes of illicit cigarettes worth an estimated R1.5 million were found at the house. 

“While members were busy, a BMW with foreign registration numbers arrived. It is alleged that the driver offered to pay a large sum of money to the officers not to confiscate the loot.

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“The suspect, aged 42, was made aware of his illegal actions and arrested on the spot for corruption.

“Money in R200 notes was also confiscated and external stakeholders, such as SARS, were summoned for further investigation,” he said.

Sgt Kareli added that the suspect has appeared in the Ficksburg magistrate court and was remanded in custody to 1 August 2024 for formal bail application whilst investigations continue.