Diepsloot police spokesperson Warrant Officer Daniel Mavimbela said one of the suspects was arrested for allegedly possessing an unlicensed handgun and ammunition. He was found in Diepsloot Extension 7 on the morning of 12 November following a tip-off.
“A day later, the 28-year-old man’s woes continued when the police’s own detailed investigations revealed that he allegedly took part in the armed robberies at two filling stations during the months of September and October this year,” said Mavimbela.
He said the suspect’s alleged accomplice, 23, was then arrested in Extension 7 on 15 November after further investigations into similar cases which were reported in Diepsloot and Olievenhoutbosch.
“Suspected stolen cash and cellphones were seized when the 23-year-old was caught,” said Mavimbela.
He said the two men were linked jointly and separately in three filling station robberies and at this stage it is believed that each suspect was involved in at least two of the robberies.
“During the armed robberies at three filling stations, two in Diepsloot and one in Olievenhoutbosch, a group of men reportedly fled with an undisclosed amount of cash. More properties were stolen from both the retailers and customers.
“Following the breakthrough in the robberies, the police are hot on the trail of about six remaining suspects. More arrests are expected.”
Mavimbela said both suspects will be charged with business robberies. Charges of possessions of suspected stolen property, and unlicensed firearm and ammunition, will be allocated to the suspects accordingly.
The duo are expected to appear in the Randburg Magistrate’s on 16 November.
