A 15-man gang of heavily armed robbers stormed a mosque during Friday prayers in Kabokweni, Mpumalanga, where they robbed about 20 worshippers of their personal belongings, including their cell phones.
Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said the gang arrived in a white Toyota Quantum minibus at around 13:20.
The suspects first held about 20 worshippers at gunpoint, before robbing them.
“These rude suspects also took a car, Toyota Corolla with registration number JRH 078 MP, belonging to one of the worshippers before they fled the scene,” said Brigadier Mohlala.”
The victims reported the incident to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Kabokweni, where a business robbery case was opened.
“A massive manhunt for the suspects has since been launched,” said Brigadier Mohlala.
The police urged anyone with information on the whereabouts of the suspects to call Detective Lieutenant Colonel Zenzo Banda on 0823739062 or call the Crime Stop number on 0860010111.
Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPSAPP.
All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
Meanwhile, SAPS Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has asked the public to be on the lookout for suspects selling stolen items.
“The only way to shut down the market for criminals is to stop buying stolen goods. Therefore, the public should come on board on this one” said the general.
