ATM robbers arrested
A large sum of money was recovered and the vehicle was impounded.
EXCELLENT teamwork by police resulted in the arrest of three ATM robbers.
A woman was a victim of a robbery at an ATM in Shelly Beach on Tuesday this week. She was taken by surprise when police informed her that they had arrested all three suspects within half an hour of the robbery.
“Zoleka Vungwana from Bizana was depositing money at an ATM in Shelly Beach at about 6pm when a man offered to assist her,” said police spokesman, Lieutenant-Colonel Zandra Wiid. “Another man was standing at the adjacent ATM and, within a few seconds, her bank card was stolen,” said Lt-Col Wiid.
The men fled in a white sedan with GP registration plates. Money was also withdrawn from her account. She screamed for help and the police were informed. Port Shepstone SAPS radio control circulated details of the vehicle. Police vehicles in the area were sent to block off possible escape routes.
“Constable Orlando Nyawose from the Port Shepstone K9 Unit was the first to spot the wanted vehicle driving in a northerly direction near the Oribi toll plaza. He followed the car towards Southport and managed to pull the vehicle over,” said Lt-Col Wiid.
Within minutes other officers arrived to assist Cst Nyawose. The vehicle and suspects fitted the description given by the complainant and they were taken to Port Shepstone police station.
Major General Thembi Ndlovu commended the officers personally for their quick response and the successful arrest of the suspects. An equally surprised Ms Vungwana could not stop praising the Port Shepstone police.
A large sum of money was recovered and the vehicle impounded. The three suspects are being detained and will face a charge of robbery and will appear in court soon.
The public should always be alert at ATMs and not accept assistance from strangers. Rather seek help from the bank personnel or someone you know.
