THE four thugs had inside information and knew the time and place where the stokvel money was going to be shared.
But the cops spoiled their plans.
Captain Mega Ndobe said the would-be robbers were bust before they could pounce on the unsuspecting stokvel members.
“On Thursday evening, Katlehong crime prevention unit members were patrolling the area when they received a tip-off about the planned robbery,” said Captain Ndobe.
Cops were given a description of the vehicle the suspects were travelling in.
“We were given the type, colour and registration of the vehicle,” said Ndobe.
The vehicle was spotted at Ramokonopi West section in Katlehong, Ekurhuleni, and cops forced the driver to stop.
A 9mm pistol with serial numbers filed off, and 16 rounds of ammunition, were seized after suspects aged between 25 and 57 were frisked.
Balaclavas, gloves, cable ties and a bolt cutter were found in the car.
Ndobe said four suspects from Katlehong hostels and the Sakhile squatter camp were arrested and detained at the Katlehong Police Station.
“The suspects will be charged with unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition and conspiracy to commit crime.
“The firearm will be taken for ballistic testing to see if it was used in other crimes.”
The suspects were due to appear in the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court.