Robbers made a bang with a robbery at a local fuel station in the Central Business District.
The Sasol Garage on the corner of Mandela Road and Diederick Street was robbed in the early hours of Friday, June 8, resulting in the bombing of its safe and the theft of various goods.
Brian Dlamini, a staff member at the garage, said, “It is not the first time we’ve been robbed, but it is the first time they bombed the safe. Fortunately, no one was injured.”
According to Dlamini, the cashier who was on duty saw more than five unknown men and initially thought they were customers.
However, the situation quickly escalated when she heard them violently beating against the glass door, demanding entry.
Two of the suspects were allegedly armed with firearms, and four others were also allegedly carrying weapons.
According to police, the suspects forced their way into the shop and ordered the complainant to lie down outside.
One suspect then led staff members to an assembly point at the corner of the garage. While outside, the complainant heard two loud explosions. The criminals also emptied the shelves.
“The suspects took an undisclosed amount of money from the safe, along with cigarettes, chocolates, and other small items,” Dlamini added.
The suspects fled towards Coronation, though it remains unclear whether they escaped on foot or had a getaway vehicle.
Witbank Police Station Spokesperson Captain Eddie Hall gave tips to prevent business robberies: “Do not keep too much money on the business premises. Be on the lookout for suspicious customers. Do not keep the shop open late. Avoid being alone, especially at night. Business owners should not open for anyone after closing time.”
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