WALVIS BAY - Employees of the popular clothing shop, Style yesterday outsmarted armed robbers in Swakopmund by sending out a distress call unnoticed during the active robbery. 

According to Inspector Ileni Shapumba, three men armed with a gas pistol and a panga caught the employees off guard by entering the shop at around 09h10. The suspects allegedly closed the door with the intention to rob the establishment but were outsmarted by the employees who alerted the police about the robbery.

Upon entering the shop, the suspects threatened the six employees and demanded money.

“One of the employees alerted the police without being detected by the alleged suspects. As a result, our members swiftly responded to the distress call and apprehended all three suspects,” Shapumba explained yesterday.

He also mentioned that nothing was stolen, and the weapons used in the robbery have now been recovered as evidence. The suspects are expected to appear in the Swakopmund Magistrate’s court today.

“We commend the Style employees for their quick and smart actions, as well as the police members for their rapid response. While we do not wish for crime to affect anyone, we encourage communities to always take prompt action and notify the police in case of criminal activity,” Shapumba said.

No one was injured during the robbery attempt.

He then urged communities in the Erongo region to remain vigilant, as criminals are currently targeting shops. According to him, most robberies currently committed occur during the early hours, busy weekends, and late in the afternoon. He also advised businesses not to keep large amounts of cash in their shops to avoid becoming targets.”

- edeklerk@nepc.com.na