Photo Credit:GCIS.
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has welcomed the “swift action” of law enforcement in OR Tambo attempted robbery, saying criminal elements were determined to undermine the law even during Covid-19.
“As the country unites to fight against the spread of Covid-19, it is clear that there remains a few criminal elements who are hell-bent on undermining the laws of the republic and putting the lives of law-abiding citizens at risk.”
“Their brazen acts of criminality will not be tolerated, we will not allow crime to prevail, even in times of Covid-19. We will continue to ensure both the health and the safety of all,” Mbalula said.
An attempt to steal personal protective equipment from OR Tambo International Airport’s cargo area on Saturday left two people dead and several injured, including one civilian.
In a statement, police spokesperson Colonel Brenda Muridili said seven suspects had been arrested and five firearms were recovered following a shootout between law enforcement and the suspects after a high-speed car chase.
“At about 12:30 today [Saturday], a group of suspects entered the cargo section at the OR Tambo airport and held the staff at gunpoint at one of the warehouses.”
“The manager of the warehouse noticed employees lying on the floor and immediately notified the police and airport security,” Muridili said.
Upon arrival, the police and security officers chased after the suspects’ truck and bakkie which had left the cargo area.
“A high-speed chase and shootout ensued. Subsequently, seven suspects were arrested, four of them with gunshot wounds, while two others were shot dead.
When the police caught the suspects, they found they had attempted to steal personal protective equipment, including masks, as well as three crates of cellphones.
The arrested suspects will be appearing at the Kempton Park Magistrates Court soon, facing charges of armed robbery.