Police in Embalenhle, Mpumalanga, have arrested four suspects in connection with a brazen overnight shooting and robbery at a local tavern, authorities said Tuesday.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane of the South African Police Service, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, February 16, at a tavern in Extension 22.
It is alleged that the suspects arrived at the establishment as it was closing and confronted the owner, who was standing at the door. When the owner refused to hand over money, he was shot in the thigh. The assailants then forced him behind the counter and demanded more cash. Upon being told no additional money was available, the victim was shot again in the other thigh.
“The suspects further demanded cellphones from patrons inside the tavern,” Lt. Col. Ndubane said in a media statement. “All patrons were reportedly robbed of their cellphones before the suspects fled the scene.”
Following the robbery, police launched an intelligence driven operation, deploying informants in the area. This led officers to a specific address where a group of males were reportedly seen drinking. A vehicle matching the description of the getaway car was parked outside.
Upon arrival at the address, officers found only one suspect, as the others had reportedly left in the vehicle. After receiving permission to search the premises, police discovered a firearm that had been thrown onto a bed. The suspect was immediately arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm.
“He subsequently provided information regarding the whereabouts of the other suspects,” Lt. Col. Ndubane stated.
Acting on that information, police tracked down the vehicle and found it driving in the area with three occupants. A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a revolver in the driver’s possession. One of the other occupants managed to flee the scene before he could be apprehended, but the driver and a second suspect were taken into custody.
The investigation took a further turn when police were led to a local traditional healer. Authorities allege the healer assisted the suspects after the crime. A search of the healer’s hut, conducted with permission, resulted in the recovery of another revolver and a rifle. The traditional healer was subsequently arrested.
In total, four suspects are now in custody. They face charges of possession of unlicensed firearms, attempted murder, and business robbery. The vehicle allegedly used in the crime has been seized by police for further investigation.
The four suspects were scheduled to appear before the Evander Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, February 19, to face the charges. Lt. Col. Ndubane confirmed that investigations are continuing.