The Stellenbosch Police have arrested five suspects at a chain retailer in Neuwenbos, Stellenbosch, for attempted murder, an attack on police and attempted business robbery on Sunday night.

According to police, the complainant was in the manager’s office when he was informed of suspicious-looking people in the shop. When he went to check, he was grabbed by an unknown male suspect who took him to the cash office.

While walking to the cash office, the complainant noticed that the suspect was carrying a black bag, and he tried to get the attention of his floor manager. At the same time, a police officer entered the shop, and the suspect immediately ran out of the shop.

Police Captain Frederick C. van Wyk says the complainant informed the police officer what transpired, and the police officer followed the suspect out of the shop. A shooting then broke out between the police and the suspects.

“A few of the suspects fled the crime scene in a white Ford and a silver VW Polo sedan. One of the getaway vehicles drove into a member, injuring him in the process. He received medical attention at the scene,” added van Wyk

Van Wyk added that four suspects were arrested inside the shop. Later information was received about another suspect who was taken to a nearby hospital with a gunshot wound to the body.

“This information was followed up by the members, and the suspect was arrested at the hospital. He is currently under police guard in hospital.”

One 9mm Beretta with 15 rounds of ammunition and an imitation firearm were recovered inside the shop. Two police vehicles were damaged. One getaway vehicle was recovered in Kayamandi with visible blood stains on it.

This vehicle and firearms were handed in as exhibits and for further processing.

According to van Wyk, the suspects aged between 27 and 45 are due to appear in the Stellenbosch Magistrates’ Court once charged.

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