By Kopano Dibakwane
A brazen criminal act reportedly took place along the R40 Road, at Garelane in Bushbuckridge, whereby a Mozambican taxi was allegedly targeted by criminals who got away with cellphones, passports and an undisclosed amount of cash belonging to 16 passengers, on Friday 15 December, at around 22h00.
According to a report released by Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, the taxi was coming from Acornhoek and heading to Mozambique when the incident took place.
” The(taxi) driver noticed some flashing lights from a white Toyota bakkie coming from behind him. The driver carried on driving until he reached a filling station where he thought it was safe to stop.
” However, the vehicle that was trailing followed them to the fuel station and upon arrival, four armed males are said to have alighted from the said bakkie. One of the suspects allegedly fired a shot before pouncing on the taxi driver,” said Brigadier Mohlala.
It reported that that the suspects snatched a bag full of passports belonging to the passengers as well as cash which was reportedly a collection of money paid by the commuters.
” The suspects fled the scene but no casualties or injuries were reported. The police were notified about the incident and a robbery case was opened. A manhunt for the perpetrators has already been launched and an investigation regarding the incident is underway,” said Brigadier Mohlala.
