Off-duty cop thwarts robbery
2008-04-04 18:06
Johannesburg - An off-duty policeman single-handedly shot and wounded two gunmen while they attempted to rob a branch of McDonalds in Fourways Crossing, Randburg, police said on Friday.
Constable Mothadi Lekota was having dinner at the fast food outlet on Thursday evening when six armed men stormed in, ordered the customers to lie down and hand over cellphones and money.
Lekota fired several shots at one of the men and managed to wound another gunman during the shooting.
The other four gunmen then ran away from the scene.
A 9mm pistol was recovered at the scene and most of the items taken from the customers were also recovered.
The two wounded men were taken to hospital and were in a serious condition.
Commissioner of Randburg police Lettie Hugo praised Lekota for his bravery.
"I am glad that I could respond so quickly during the armed robbery and perform my duties as a policeman. Just at the right place at the right time," Lekota said.
Also on Thursday, McDonald's restaurant in the East Rand mall in Boksburg was robbed by three armed men.
The men stole an undisclosed amount of cash and fled.
- SAPA