In the early hours (04:00) of November 6, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga and her bodyguards fell victim to armed robbers on the N3.
The minister, bodyguards and a family member were between Heidelberg and Vosloorus and stopped due to a puncture and damage to a tyre caused by spikes and obstacles on the road.
While the bodyguards were changing the tyre they were confronted by three armed suspects.
Chikunga was told to get out of the vehicle and sit on the ground and money was demanded from her.
Apart from the money, the suspects took laptops, firearms and the family member’s bag and fled the scene.
According to Chikunga, the suspects were well dressed, in their 20’s and 30’s and spoke Zulu.
Heidelberg SAPS communications officer Constable Dorus Nkosi confirmed to HERAUT that the incident occurred. The docket is at Heidelberg SAPS and a case of armed robbery has been opened.
No injuries were reported in the robbery.
Heidelberg SAPS is currently investigating the robbery. A manhunt has been launched for the suspects.
Heidelberg station commander Colonel Phiwe Ndwandwe has on numerous occasions warned about the robberies and hijackings on the N3.
The N3 is notorious for hijackings and armed robberies. The SAPS has sent out various statements on the issues and wants the public to be aware and not be complacent while driving.
