Mugging incident at Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden

A woman was mugged at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden on Wednesday afternoon, January 17.

According to the marketing, communication and commercialisation manager for the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), Nontsikeleo Mpulo, a woman was approached by a man wielding both a knife and a gun at the top of the Witpoortjie Waterfall on the natural estate portion of the garden.

The victim said she handed over R300 and dropped a few notes. She managed to push the assailant away when he went to pick up the notes and then fled down the steps alongside the waterfall. She reported the incident to security, and the security manager immediately activated all security personnel to search for the perpetrator.

The police were called to investigate and a case of armed robbery was opened. No arrests were been made and despite a thorough search of the area, it is still to be determined how the perpetrator gained access to the garden.

According to Mpulo, this is the first incident of this nature at the garden in its 41-year history, and if it is up to them, the last.

“The garden has taken every precaution to safeguard its visitors by providing security personnel on the grounds and fencing off the estate,” says Mpulo.

“It is gravely concerning that this incident has occurred on our premises, and we are relieved that the woman was unhurt. We are investigating and will increase security patrols, particularly to the natural estate to prevent any further incidents.”