Police netted five suspected armed robbers after a hold-up at Kalky’s in which a traffic officer was shot.
Four men, two armed with guns, got into the Kalk Bay Harbour restaurant through a back door and robbed the owner, George Mandalios, of cash and his Glock .40 S&W firearm, on Monday morning November 4, say police.
The robbers fled in a white Hyundai Getz, reported hijacked in Manenberg in March, but not before one of them shot at the traffic officer in the parking lot, hitting him in the arm.
The 47-year-old officer, who is based at Ndabeni, was taken to a local hospital, where he is in a stable condition. The officer raised the alarm about the robbery, giving a description of the getaway car to City Law Enforcement officers in Muizenberg who, joined by SAPS officers, pursued the vehicle along Baden Powell Road.
The chase ended behind Rocklands Sports Field in Mitchell’s Plain.
“After being forced to a stop, the suspects jumped out of the car and tried to evade the police on foot. Five suspects were arrested and a Taurus .38 special revolver with six rounds of ammunition were recovered at the scene,” said Muizenberg police spokesman, Captain Stephen Knapp.
The suspects, aged 21, 28, 29, 36 and 38, were detained at Muizenberg police station. They face charges of attempted murder, armed robbery and the illegal possession of a firearm.
“The quick thinking of the City’s enforcement staff involved in this incident was key in tracking down the suspects who are now behind bars,” said Mayco member for safety and security, JP Smith.
“I commend the staff for their actions, I would also like to wish
the officer who was wounded a speedy recovery. The City will provide the necessary support ser-
vices to him, including counsel-
ling.”
Muizenberg Community Police Forum spokesman, Wayne Turner, was present during this call-out.
“You get a call that an officer has been shot and everything changes. That sick feeling hits your stomach, and then the adrenalin kicks in, not knowing what you are driving into. The lights and sirens go on, and every sense is heightened as you focus totally on the road and vehicles ahead.”
Within minutes, vehicles from all law-enforcement agencies had swarmed the area, he said.
“There were just too many and the robbers were caught, including the shooter. Well done to the Law Enforcement, Traffic, Metro and SAPS officers who worked together and made the arrests.
“I’m proud to be a part of them. Total commitment with no thought for their own lives and safety. The same officers who write the vehicle and dog fines are prepared to die bringing criminals to justice. Totally unselfish. Next time you receive a fine for an offence, you may be seeing that officer for the last time before they make the ultimate sacrifice.”
Mr Mandalios told the False Bay Echo it was the second time in a month that the restaurant had been robbed.
“Thank God, though, we are all alive. My friend, the traffic officer, was shot in the arm, but he is okay. He was very good; he managed
to take a picture of the getaway
car, and this led to the robbers’ arrest.”
Mr Mandalios said he would beef up security at the restaurant and was grateful for the community’s support.
Detective Warrant Officer Daniel Geldenhuys is investigating the case. He can be contacted at 021 787 9022.
