Robbery suspects arrested while celebrating

The victory celebration of suspected armed robbers was cut short on Thursday when police swooped in and arrested the men.

The gang of six is accused of holding up a shop owner at gunpoint in the Mangidini area of Nkandla last week, stealing an undisclosed amount of money as well as cellphones and cigarettes.

On Thursday, police were tipped off as to the whereabouts of the suspects.

King Cetshwayo Cluster police spokesperson Captain Siyanda Shangase explained that an urgent operation had been set up.

“Members both on and off duty, as well as detectives and crime prevention members were mobilised for the execution of the operation. Police members proceeded to a homestead in the Magqashiya area, where the suspects were found in the rondovel consuming alcohol,” he said.

“Police searched them and one firearm loaded with five rounds of live ammunition was recovered. It was established that the firearm was used in a business robbery. Cellphones and an undisclosed amount of money were also recovered.

“All suspects were arrested for possession of suspected stolen property, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. All six suspects, between the ages of 18 and 26, appeared at the Nkandla Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

“They were remanded in police custody pending an investigation. They are expected to appear at the same court next week Monday for a formal bail application,” said Shangase.

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