2 cops shot in casino robbery
2009-06-15 12:19
Witbank - Two policemen were shot and injured during a robbery at The Ridge casino in Witbank, Mpumalanga police said on Monday.
Captain Leonard Hlathi said four armed men, who were part of a larger group, entered the casino at around 15:45 on Sunday and fired two shots into its entertainment area causing patrons to flee.
The men then ordered casino staff to open the vault containing cash. When the staff complied, the men took an undisclosed amount of cash and fled.
On their way out of the casino, they were confronted by police.
A shoot-out followed during which one of the men shot at police with an AK-47.
He shot one policeman in the head and another in the leg.
"Thank God both the policemen are still alive," said Hlathi.
One person has been arrested in connection with the incident, he confessed to police that he was part of the group of men involved in the robbery.
Police recovered four vehicles used by the suspects, three bakkies and the Jetta.
Police were investigating cases of armed robbery, attempted murder, malicious damage to property and possibly, vehicle theft or hijacking.
No further arrests were made and investigations were continuing.
- SAPA