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Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
A ZIMBABWEAN man was killed in South Africa when he tried to grab a gun from one of four armed robbery suspects who pounced on a bus he was travelling in.
The incident occurred on Wednesday at around 5.45AM along the N1 highway in Modimolle area as 23 Zimbabweans, the deceased included, were travelling from Johannesburg, Gauteng province.
Limpopo police spokesman Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe said investigations were underway and they were yet to account for the four suspects.
The deceased’s relatives are yet to be advised.
“The police in Modimolle have launched a massive manhunt for a group of suspects involved in the murder and armed robbery which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday at about 0545hrs along the N1 South.
“It is alleged that the driver of the taxi was transporting 22 passengers from Johannesburg to Zimbabwe. Along the way near Kranskop plaza, a group of passengers allegedly requested the driver to stop as they wanted to relieve themselves,” he said.
Col Ngoepe said while the passengers were relieving themselves, four men pounced on them and robbed them of money and cellphones at gun point.
He said during the process, one man tried to grab a gun from one of the suspects, and he was shot to death.
“The police were summoned, reacted swiftly and started with the initial investigations. The suspects are still unknown and there is no arrest.
“Anyone with information about the suspects involved in this matter may contact Captain Richard Boshomane on 079 894 5501 or the crime stop number 0860010111 or the crime line sms 32211 or the nearest Police Station. Investigations are still continuing,” said Col Ngoepe.
Off late there has been an increase in Zimbabwean cross border buses being targeted by criminals along the N1 highway between Limpopo and Gauteng provinces.
More than 20 buses have fallen victim along the same stretch between 2017 and this year. The criminals are reportedly targeting cellphones, jewelry and money.
Online Reporter