Suspected robbers nabbed at KZN traditional healer's home

They were arrested on Tuesday at a traditional healer's home in KwaDukuza, where they had apparently gone for a cleansing and protection.

Police say when officers arrived at the homestead, five of the suspects tried to flee and jumped into a dam.

They were caught in the water.

Provincial police spokesperson Thembeka Mbele says a vehicle the suspects had used was seized, along with three guns.

Police believe they are behind several recent robberies in Bergville and other areas. 

"The suspects may also be linked to two robberies, which took place in Ladysmith and Winterton. It is alleged that on 5 July 2021 at 12:35, a group of armed men entered a shop on Springfield Road in Winterton and demanded cash and cellphones from the employees.

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"At gunpoint, they removed cellphones and an undisclosed amount of cash before they fled in their gateway bakkie. A case of robbery was opened at the Winterton police station for investigation. 

"The third incident took place on 5 July 2021 at 17:50, as security guards were travelling along the R616 when an unknown vehicle blocked their path of travel. 

"The occupants of the said vehicle shot at the security vehicle and as a result, three tyres burst. The suspects instructed the security guard to open the door and deprived him of his service firearm. 

"The security guard heard a loud explosion and he observed the suspects removing cash from the vehicle. Thereafter suspects sped off in their getaway vehicle with an un-disclosed amount of cash. A case of robbery was opened at Ladysmith police station for investigation."