Armed Robbery Suspects Arrested and Unlicensed Firearms Recovered in Sunnyside
Firearms recovered by suspects in Sunnyside Tshwane photo supplied
By Captain Johan van Dyk
Tshwane District Communication Coordinator
The Acting District Commissioner of Tshwane, Brigadier Moses Dladla, has welcomed the swift response by Sunnyside SAPS members following an armed robbery incident that occurred in Sunnyside on Monday morning, 12 January 2026.
At approximately 07:40, police were alerted to a robbery at a business premises situated at the corner of Robert Sobukwe Street and Troye Street, Sunnyside.
It is alleged that the complainant was busy packing stock outside his shop when he was approached by two unknown male suspects.
One of the suspects reportedly pointed a firearm at the complainant and forced him back into the shop.
Once inside, the suspects instructed the complainant to open a safe, from which an undisclosed amount of cash, as well as 60 wristwatches, were taken.
The suspects then attempted to lock the complainant inside the shop, however, the complainant screamed for help, causing the suspects to flee the scene.
Sunnyside Crime Prevention members, who were conducting patrols by vehicle and on foot in front of the shop at the time of the incident, immediately responded and gave chase.
One suspect was arrested a short distance from the scene and found in possession of a Taurus 9mm firearm with ammunition.
The second suspect fled in the direction of Sunnyside SAPS and was apprehended by Sunnyside SAPS detectives on the pavement.
He was found in possession of a Vector 9mm pistol and ammunition.
Both suspects were arrested for possession of unlicensed firearms and are also suspected of armed robbery.
Two firearms were seized and booked into evidence, namely a Taurus 9mm pistol with a filed-off serial number, one magazine, and 16 live 9mm rounds and
A Vector 9mm pistol with a filed-off serial number, one magazine, and six live 9mm rounds.
Firearms will undergo ballistic testing to determine whether the weapons were used in other crimes.
Investigations continue to determine whether the suspects can be linked to other criminal activities in the area and will appear in court soon.
No shots were fired during the incident and no injuries were reported.
Brigadier Dladla commended the members for their vigilance and rapid response, reiterating SAPS’ commitment to ensuring the safety of businesses and residents in the Tshwane District.
