Seven suspects were arrested for an attempted robbery of a Clicks store at the Mainstream Shopping Mall in Hout Bay on Thursday, April 8.
The incident occurred roundabout 23:15 when two armed suspects held guards at gunpoint, while the other five suspects broke the glass doors to gain entry.
However, the centres’ control room monitored the cameras and requested assistance.
It is purported that the mall security and members from different security companies reacted swiftly. They apprehended three of the suspects, who tried to flee the scene both on foot and in a vehicle with an alleged fake number plate.
A shoot out then ensued between the suspects and the security officers as well as two more suspects who were later apprehended.
The members of the South African Police Services(SAPS) K9 Unit were called, which led to another two arrests and the recovery of a 9 mm Norinco firearm. However, the serial number of the firearm was filed off.
Three live rounds and a magazine were also discovered.
Housebreaking implements, cellular phones and stolen property were all recovered on the scene and the vehicle was handed in as evidence.
The seven suspects aged between 29 – 40 will appear in the Wynberg Magistrate Court on Monday 12 April 2021 on charges of illegal entering of business premises, possession of an illegal firearm and the possession of ammunition as well as pointing of a firearm.
Meanwhile, in a statement by the Hout Bay Policing Forum (CPF) acting Station Commander, Captain Tanya Lesch has expressed her gratitude towards all the role players who assisted in the success of arresting the perpetrators.
Picture: Cape Town ETC gallery