Motorist robbed of R20 000 outside New Germany store

A motorist who stopped at a shop in New Germany to buy a cold drink was held up at gunpoint and robbed of R20 000 in broad daylight yesterday.
Blue Security operations manager Brian Jackson said the man had just made his purchase at the store and was reversing out of a parking space when a silver grey Hyundai stopped behind him and a gang jumped out. The incident occurred at around 1.40pm.
“Four armed men jumped out of the vehicle and held him up at gunpoint, robbing him of  R20 000 cash,” Jackson said.
Jackson advised residents to avoid carrying large sums of cash, especially at this time of the year when criminals are aware that many businesses are paying staff their salaries and annual bonuses. “Business owners are advised to rather pay staff electronically, directly into their bank accounts as it is safer both for employees and the owners and managers who are tasked with paying out salaries,” he said.
“Criminals are on the lookout for opportunities especially at this time of they year. They lurk near banks and ATMs and outside business premises to watch the movements of managers and staff, seeking an opportune moment to strike,” he said. “If you do need to go the bank regularly make sure that you vary the times and routes that you travel to reduce the chance of becoming a target.”