JOHANNESBURG South African police have arrested three people who allegedly robbed a group of European journalists here to cover the World Cup. Police spokesperson Brigadier Sally de Beer said police and intelligence agents joined forces to track the armed robbers who were apprehended last Wednesday night, less than 24 hours after they robbed the three Portuguese and Spanish reporters. De Beer said police were also able to recover some of the items stolen from the journalists who were robbed of their belongings while sleeping at the Nutbush Homa Lodge in Magaliesburg, near Johannesburg early last Wednesday morning.
The three suspects are expected to appear in court soon. National Police Commissioner, General Bheki Cele, praised the police officers who worked tirelessly to investigate the case. I want to personally congratulate the police team on this sterling effort which should reassure the foreign media contingent that the police of this country are determined to create a safe environment for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
He said while it was unfortunate that foreign visitors had to endure the experience, they could take heart from the swift reaction of the countrys police and enjoy the rest of their stay in the country. Meanwhile Koketso Seerane, the mayor for Mogale City under which Magaliesburg falls, condemned the robbery describing it as a barbaric act. He vowed that the citys residents would work with police to see justice done. We are committed in ensuring that our visitors enjoy their stay in Mogale City and that they visit us again after the World Cup. We express our sympathy and support to the victims of this robbery, Seerane said.
He added that the city was abuzz with activity and people were working around the clock to ensure that the Portuguese and Australian teams, both of whom chose Mogale City as they base, were happy and safe during their stay.
Post published in: Zimbabwe Sports News