A police sergeant is recovering in the hospital after being injured in a shooting incident involving fleeing robbers during a failed ATM bombing at a petrol garage. The incident occurred on June 25, 2024, at approximately 01:15.
It is alleged that about five armed suspects entered the convenience store at a petrol garage. Three of the men entered the shop, with one pointing a firearm at the cashier and forcing everyone to lie on the floor. The suspects then took an undisclosed amount of cash and cigarettes. Meanwhile, another suspect was at the ATM planting explosives, which ultimately did not detonate.
The suspects, all wearing balaclavas and armed with handguns, were making their way out of the scene when a Villiers Highway patrol vehicle passed the garage. The robbers fired shots at the vehicle, injuring a sergeant in the passenger seat. Backup was immediately summoned, but the suspects had already fled the scene by the time additional officers arrived.
The injured sergeant, a 39-year-old woman, was rushed to the hospital with a shoulder injury. She is currently in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery.
Villiers police have opened cases of business robbery, attempted murder, and attempted ATM bombing. However, no arrests have been made so far. The case is being investigated by the Provincial Organised Crime Unit's Sergeant Tauru Majoe, who is urging anyone with information about the suspects to come forward.
Anyone with information that could assist in the investigation is encouraged to contact Sergeant Tauru Majoe at 071 094 0570, call Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or submit an anonymous tip via the MySAPSApp.
The police emphasize the importance of community assistance in solving this case and apprehending the suspects. They also assure the public that they are taking all necessary steps to enhance security and prevent such incidents in the future. The recovery of the injured sergeant and the swift action of her colleagues highlight the bravery and dedication of the police force in the face of danger.
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