ATTACK: EMS team was robbed
Image: Supplied
Robbers targeted EMS personnel while they were loading an elderly patient into an ambulance in Bluegum Avenue, Bonteheuwel this week.
During the incident on Wednesday morning, a medical personnel’s bag was stolen. But thanks to tip-offs from the residents, the robbers were busted soon after by local neighbourhood safety officers.
Police arrested two men, aged 21 and 30 years old, for possession of the stolen property. They were found with fifteen rounds of ammunition.
Western Cape Health Department spokesperson Shimoney Regter confirmed that the staff and patient were not harmed during the ordeal.
“We can confirm that an incident occurred early (Wednesday) morning in Bonteheuwel while EMS personnel were loading a patient into an ambulance.
“During the incident, an EMS member’s bag was stolen. Thankfully, our staff members and the patient are safe," Regter said.
“The stolen items have since been recovered, thanks to the swift response and support of the Bonteheuwel community and community leaders. We extend our sincere appreciation for their assistance.
“Attacks on EMS staff are unacceptable and place both personnel and patients at serious risk.”
RECOVERED: Medic's stolen bag
Image: Supplied
Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg confirmed that the duo was found with the stolen bag and is expected to make their first appearance at the Bishop Lavis Magistrate’s Court once charged.
“Bishop Lavis police arrested two male suspects aged 21 and 30 for possession of stolen property this morning," Twigg said.
Ward councillor Angus McKenzie said: “Very quickly, we assembled our neighbourhood safety officers in Bonteheuwel, together we received a ton of information from community members as to who was robbed, the whereabouts of the people who did the robbing and as much information as possible, which we greatly appreciate.
“I can gladly confirm now that both suspects have been arrested with the stolen property on them, as well as fifteen rounds of ammunition as well.
“Once again, a great job done by our Neighbourhood safety officers in Bonteheuwel, the community for providing the information and the combined effort by all our enforcement services to make sure we continue to keep Bonteheuwel safe.”
Cape Times
Alleged robbers were caught by neighbourhood security
Image: Supplied