The shopping centre management confirmed that the robbery occurred at about 3.30pm.
According to Andre Synman, founder of eBlockwatch, the armed suspects entered the store around closing time and held four staff members at gunpoint. The suspects then locked them in the storeroom before proceeding to steal items in the store. The suspects then filled about 10 large bags with the store’s merchandise.
Synman explained that once the suspects finished filling the bags, they freed the staff and forced them to assist in loading the merchandise onto a bakkie.
It was also alleged that the suspects donned blue Adidas T-shirts and tracksuit pants to disguise themselves as staff members so that they could gain easy exit out of the store, Synman explained.
“The security guards at the shopping centre’s parking lot noticed the suspects, as well as their getaway vehicle, and questioned them about the merchandise they were loading onto the vehicle. The suspects then stated that the merchandise was going to Woodmead,” said Synman. He concluded that the suspects fled the scene in a white Toyota Hilux bakkie with the registration number CD46FBGP.
The security guards were alerted to the crime after the robbers had fled the scene.
The centre’s management explained that seven suspects posed as interested shoppers to gain access to the store. Fourways Crossing security contacted Douglasdale Police Station and Fidelity Security Services, who responded immediately.
“Armed response chased the suspects but lost them at the Fourways Crossing traffic lights,” Synman concluded.
“All necessary safety and security measures and procedures are now in place and no injuries were reported,” the centre’s management explained.
The management team also assured customers and tenants that the mall’s safety will remain a top priority and they also expressed their deepest sympathy to the affected staff members.
Warrant Officer Balan Muthan, head of communications for Douglasdale Police Station, confirmed that the robbery had taken place and that the matter is under investigation.
Chairperson of Douglasdale Community Policing Forum, Jean Berdou, said that although firearms were involved in the robbery, no shots were fired and no injuries sustained.
“The forum would like to urge higher levels of vigilance by all in the Fourways area as there is a marked increase in criminal activities. The community must take a further steps to protect themselves and their properties. It is important for the community to know that a united vigilant community defeats crime,” Berdou advised.
This is a developing story and Fourways Review will keep residents updated.
Details: Douglasdale Police Station 011 699 1300.
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