The Hobart Shopping Centre in Bryanston was struck by two unexpected robberies over the weekend of 10 to 12 January.
Gauteng provincial spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo said that on 10 January at about 3.50pm, police responded to a complaint of an armed robbery at Hobart Shopping Centre.
Masondo said, “It is alleged that four armed suspects accosted the victim and robbed him of his wristwatch, wallet and cell phone. Suspects jumped into an Opel Corsa and drove off at a high speed. The victim allegedly fired shots at the getaway car.”
Doppio Zero Bryanston, which operates from the same shopping centre, reported that at 2.40pm on 12 January a similar incident took place at their restaurant.
Shareholder at Doppio Zero José Dos Passos said, “Two guys walked in and approached a customer outside, robbing her of jewellery, a watch and a ring. She was seated outside. The suspects got into a car and sped off.”
Dos Passos said that this incident is not a Hobart Centre issue but a general South African issue, which obviously needs to be addressed.
“We have engaged with centre management to up the security at the Hobart Centre and we have in the interim hired a security guard at the Doppio Zero entrance, at our own expense, to further protect our patrons.”
Doppio Zero Bryanston said in a statement that they regret the incident and will assist police who are investigating the matter.
Masondo said that police have launched a manhunt for the suspects that are still at large and are appealing to anyone who might have information that can help in the investigation to call the nearest police station or crime stop on 086 001 0111.
Centre management has declined to comment on the matter at this stage.
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