On Friday afternoon, a jewellery store at the Chatsworth Centre in KwaZulu-Natal was violently robbed by a group of heavily armed suspects. During the robbery, shots were fired, and one ricocheted, injuring a civilian in the face.
Police swiftly responded to the scene, resulting in a high-speed chase and a subsequent shootout. A Metro police officer was injured in the leg during the pursuit.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigations
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed that police managed to arrest two suspects in Umlazi. These suspects were found with two blood-stained getaway vehicles. Netshiunda stated: “Police officers responded, and a shoot-out ensued during a chase. One metro police officer was shot and injured in the leg. Relentless police officers pursued the suspects, arresting two of them in Umlazi. They were found with two blood-stained getaway vehicles.”
A manhunt is currently underway for the remaining suspects who managed to escape. Police are investigating whether these individuals are linked to a similar robbery at a Phoenix jewellery store a week earlier, during which a police officer was also shot and injured.
Chatsworth Centre’s Response
Following the incident, Chatsworth Centre issued a statement confirming the robbery and its immediate actions:
“Chatsworth Centre can confirm that an armed robbery took place at a jewellery store at the centre on Friday, August 2. As the safety of our tenants and shoppers is vital, the shopping centre will be temporarily closed today [Friday]. It will resume trade on Saturday, August 3, following instructions from the South African Police Service to allow thorough investigation. In light of recent incidents in and around the community, we have deployed guards at entrance gates to enhance visibility and are pleased that following a chase, one vehicle was caught. We will continue to work and comply with the SAPS and other local security service providers. We extend our gratitude to everyone who assisted, especially the ambulance staff who helped those distressed by the incident.”
Wider Implications for the Jewellery Industry
This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges facing jewellery retailers, particularly in high-risk areas. The violent nature of the robbery and the injuries sustained by both a civilian and a police officer underscore the need for enhanced security measures and vigilant policing.
