By Abigail Visagie

The police in Mangaung have officially launched a manhunt following two separate armed robberies that took place at both Mimosa Mall and Northridge Mall this afternoon. 

The first incident took place at a jewellery store in Northridge Mall, where six unidentified armed men ordered the store owner and employees to sit on the floor. At the same time, they emptied the cash register and stole jewellery worth R250,000.

Police Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane confirmed that a case of business robbery has been opened at the Bayswater Police Station.

Meanwhile, a separate incident took place around 13:00 at Mimosa Mall. Here, five armed men stormed into HDL Jewellers, using the same tactics, stealing jewellery and an undisclosed amount of money.

“All suspects were wearing black hats and surgical masks. They fled the scene in three vehicles: a white BMW, a white Volkswagen Golf 7, and a white Mercedes-Benz. Two shots were fired inside the store, and no injuries were reported. A case of business robbery has been opened at the Parkweg Police Station,” confirmed Covane.

Mimosa Mall also released a statement confirming the jewellery heist and stated that, as a precaution, the mall was evacuated to ensure the safety of shoppers and staff.

Mimosa Mall informs the public that the police responded promptly, and authorities are on-site conducting their investigation.  Mimosa Mall states that it is safe and has resumed trading.

Anyone with information regarding the armed robbery at Northridge Mall is requested to contact Lieutenant Colonel Kholisile Nqukuva at 082 467 6081.

For information on the robbery at Mimosa Mall, please contact Captain Sabata Jafta Moseme at 082 526 2713.