By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
22 April 2025– Three suspects aged 53, 46 and 47, were arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition and business robbery. This comes after the Rustenburg and Phokeng Public Order Police (POP), were activated after a tip-off regarding a blue Hyundai Accent with three occupants allegedly involved in a business robbery in the Ventersdorp area.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba said the information was operationalized, leading the team to the R30 road between Derby and Rustenburg. Manyoba said the team spotted and intercepted a blue Hyundai Accent and pulled it over.
“During the search of the vehicle, police recovered a pistol, with ammunition that the occupants could not account for. Additionally, cash and cellular phones were also found in their possession.
“Initial investigations revealed that the trio, driving a blue Hyundai Accent, allegedly stopped at a tuck shop earlier the same day in Goedgevonden, near Ventersdorp at around 12:30 midday,” she said.
Manyoba said two men allegedly approached the business owner and requested to buy cigarettes, whilst the female suspect remained in the vehicle. She said it was reported that the shop owner was allegedly pointed with a firearm and robbed of the cash, as well as his cellular phone, before the suspects sped off.
“The three suspects will appear before the Ventersdorp Magistrate’s Court on 22 April 2025. Investigation into the matter continues,” said Manyoba.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, congratulated members for effective communication when executing their duties. Asaneng said police will continue the fight against the proliferation of illegal weapons and ammunition in society, which is the key factor in perpetuating crime.
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