SHOPPERS at Tshakhuma Mall in Limpopo have been left traumatised.
This after four armed men targeted the Vodacom shop, fleeing with 22 cellphones on Tuesday, 5 March at about 3.50pm.
It's reported that this incident marks the first robbery since the mall opened on 28 September 2023.
Witnesses recounted the harrowing experience to Daily Sun and said that the suspects instilled panic and chaos among them while they were still enjoying their shopping.
"This unprecedented act of violence within the new mall left us fearing for our lives as this is a new mall, and it’s the first such an incident happened. The armed robbers seemingly executed a calculated criminal act, focusing their attention on the Vodacom shop,” said a witness.
The witness has called for heightened security measures to ensure the safety of shoppers.
Merriam Ranwashe, the mall centre manager, explained the steps they are taking to reassure the public and restore confidence in the safety and security of the premises.
ALSO READ: Residents demand protection from Jub Jub!
"The safety of our staff and customers is of the utmost importance. But unfortunately, these incidents can and do happen. We will be meeting with all security and centre personnel to prevent incidents like this in the future," she said.
Vhembe police spokesman Sergeant Vuledzani Dathi said the suspects ordered everyone in the shop to go to the storeroom, which also serves as a control room.
"They instructed one of the employees to open the safe, where they took out 18 cellphones. They also took four cellphones from customers. Moreover, one customer who was inside the shop was assaulted, and one shot was fired, but no injuries were reported. The suspects disappeared from the scene using an unidentified motor vehicle," said Dathi.
Dathi has urged anyone with information that can help to trace the suspects to contact investigating officer Sergeant Thivhudziswi Charles Mabayi on 082 319 9602.
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaHB5ez7tkj0FuHQkQ0s
Have you ever found your self in a situation like this? If, yes, let us know in the comment box below! Register to comment by clicking here.
