Eastgate Shopping Centre is back to business as usual following a recent robbery incident that took place on Thursday morning.
According to reports, the robbers entered the shopping centre around 9:15 am, causing panic and chaos among shoppers and staff.
Although specific details about the targeted stores were not disclosed by Eastgate, rumors circulating on community WhatsApp groups suggest that the robbers targeted Woolworths and an iStore that had just received a fresh shipment of stock.
Confirmation of Robbery
Eastgate Shopping Centre released a statement confirming the robbery that took place on the upper level of the mall.
“The safety and security of our shoppers, staff, and tenants is our top priority at Eastgate Shopping Centre. The South African Police (SAPS) are currently on-site investigating the incident, and the mall is operating as normal,” the statement read.
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Fatal Confrontation
In a separate incident last month, four armed robbers were fatally shot during a confrontation with police on the R59 in Alberton.
Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni explained that the suspects were en route to commit a business robbery when they engaged in a shootout with law enforcement officers.
“As the police attempted to stop them, the suspects opened fire, prompting the police to retaliate. This resulted in the death of all four suspects at the scene,” Mthombeni stated.
Stay Vigilant
Following these incidents, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, especially with the upcoming festive season approaching.
Just last month, seven suspects were apprehended by police and private security after robbing a jewelry store at Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort.
As shoppers prepare for the holiday rush, it is crucial to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement to ensure a safe shopping experience.
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