By Kaya 959 Reporter
Gauteng police and private security personnel have arrested five men who were allegedly on their way to commit a robbery.
“On Monday in Bedfordview, five suspects were arrested, three firearms recovered and two high-performance cars fitted with false registration number plates were impounded after the team cornered a gang suspected to be on their way to commit robbery,” a police spokesperson said.
One suspect is linked to a cash-in-transit robbery that occurred in July this year at a mall in Pretoria.
Officers received information about a gang that is going to commit armed robbery around the Johannesburg area.
A team, comprising of various units including the Benoni Flying Squad, came together to intercept the gang.
“A VW GTI Golf 5 and Toyota Hilux that matched the description given were spotted travelling in the direction of Bedfordview. Both vehicles were stopped and a search was conducted.
“Three unlicensed firearms loaded with ammunition were found, together with balaclavas, reflective jackets, two-way radios, hand gloves, grinder and other tools. It was revealed that the cars are fitted with false registration plates,” police added.
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Joint operations yield results
Police charged all five suspects with conspiracy to commit robbery, possession of unlicensed firearms, and ammunition amongst other crimes.
Officers impounded the cars used by the suspects for further investigation.
Police say the collaboration between the officers and other law enforcement agencies, including private security companies, continues to yield positive results.
Officials say the collaboration has ensured that the police arrest criminals before they can strike.
Two weeks ago, two suspects were shot dead and five others were arrested following a shootout in Benoni.
Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo said the men were allegedly on their way to commit a robbery in Ekurhuleni.
Police units and private security companies intercepted the gang. A shootout ensued and two suspects were killed.
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