Three Arrested for Passport Fraud in Mpumalanga
September 20, 2024
Snow and Cold Front Expected in Gauteng and Mpumalanga
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A 45-year-old suspect was arrested following a dramatic pursuit on 17 September 2024, after a robbery at a chain store in Carolina.
According to reports, four suspects armed with guns held store employees hostage while stealing cash, cell phones, and other items. A fifth accomplice waited in a getaway vehicle, a grey VW Polo. After the robbery, the group fled in the vehicle.
The White River Flying Squad, White River K9 Unit, a tracking company, and private security teams pursued the suspects. The vehicle was eventually spotted in Nelspruit. In a high-speed chase, the suspects attempted to evade capture but crashed into a brick wall in Mataffin, Mbombela.
During the pursuit, the suspects fired shots at law enforcement, but no injuries were reported among the officers. One suspect was injured and is currently under police guard in the hospital, while the other four managed to escape.
Further investigation revealed that the vehicle used in the robbery was stolen during a house robbery in Modimolle, Limpopo Province earlier in September 2024.
The arrested suspect faces charges including attempted murder, possession of stolen property, and involvement in the Carolina business robbery. He is expected to appear in Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court and Carolina Magistrate’s Court. Additional charges related to the house robbery in Modimolle are also possible as the investigation continues.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the swift and effective response of the law enforcement agencies involved. “The joint operation demonstrated our commitment to tackling crime and ensuring justice,” said General Mkhwanazi.