Two held for beach robbery

TWO men allegedly involved in robbing and stabbing beach-goers have been arrested at Eastern Beach.

Buffalo City Metro spokesman Thandy Matebese said the two suspects, Agree Yako and Lwando Bubi, both aged 27, were arrested soon after they allegedly robbed a couple on Friday.

The couple were on a sand dune when two men, armed with a firearm and a knife, suddenly appeared and robbed them of their belongings, including three cellphones, shoes and a bag.

The men fled and the couple reported the incident to lifeguards, who made a robbery report on their radio, which was intercepted by law enforcement officials.

Matebese said police rushed to the scene, placed the victims in their vehicle, and went in search of the two men.

“Suspects were spotted coming out of … bushes near John Bailey Road and, upon seeing the officers, they fled back into the bushes. Our officers gave chase and managed to arrest them,” Matebese said.

The suspects were taken to Fleet Street police station.

East London police spokeswoman Warrant Officer Hazel Mqala confirmed the arrests and said the men were charged with robbery.

“They appeared in the East London Magistrate’s Court on Monday when their case was remanded to Wednesday [today] for a formal bail application.”

Detectives were trying to link the suspects to other crimes at Eastern Beach.

Meanwhile, five people, aged between 23 and 54, were arrested in Duncan Village on Sunday and Monday for allegedly being in possession of 6.5kg of dagga valued at R6 500.

They are due to appear in court today. —