Bedford Centre has vowed to urgently review the mall’s process of cash-in-transit delivery and to have the function moved away from the public spaces in the centre.
The statement followed yesterday’s cash-in-transit heist at 11.15am.
“Management is proud of Bedford’s security record and wish to assure our customers and tenants that security has and will always be a priority,” the centre said.
Seven people including two suspects were injured when a shoot-out ensued between SBV guards and robbers on the escalators near the banking court.
The two were placed under arrest and taken to hospital under police guard.
Although shoppers and tenants at the centre were left shaken, they took to Facebook to express their feelings.
One user posted, “Thank you to management, security and all the brave people involved, perfect 10 Bedford”.
Another shared the same sentiment, thanking centre management for handling the matter with professionalism.
“Well done Bedford. I always enjoy my visits to the centre and will continue to do so. Thoughts and prayers for all those affected by this horrible deed. Also a shout-out to the quick response of emergency services, SAPS and medical services. You rock,” reads the post.
Police confirmed that a manhunt for the suspects at large who made off with an undisclosed amount of money was still on and arrests are eminent.
As of this morning, the two suspects were still in a critical condition in hospital, according to police spokesperson Sergeant Mduduzi Nhlabathi.
It is still unclear how the suspects had entered the centre.
Police investigations are still underway.
Read these 5 updates as events unfolded today:
Area surrounding Bedford Centre in lock down
Bedford Centre cash-n-transit shooting: Flying Squad and K9 enterting centre
Second suspect shot at Bedford Centre
Shoppers are being kept inside the centre until the scene has been cleared
Witnesses treated for shock and trauma
