Two suspects shot dead during attempted robbery at China Mall

Two suspects were shot dead during an attempted armed robbery at China Mall in Beacon Bay on Thursday.

The entrance to the bustling mall was cordoned off by police after the shooting.

For one East London resident, an ordinary day out shopping took a traumatic turn when his vehicle was caught in the crossfire.

Keegan Wheller, who had his two-year-old son in the car, said: “I was driving to the timber store when I heard a gunshot. Then a second shot hit my door.”

He said he had been unaware how serious the incident was until he saw two bodies lying at the entrance to the mall.

“I was with my son, but he was calm about everything.

“I was very concerned for his life, and I am grateful nothing happened to him. It is just my vehicle that was damaged.”

Another eyewitness, who did not want to be named, said there had been about four would-be robbers, but the others had fled.

“The two were shot dead while trying to exit the mall.”

The mall was closed, blocked by police vehicles, a security response team and forensics.

When the Dispatch arrived at the scene, the bodies were still exposed to the public view, as the forensic team was still at work.

Some customers were still locked inside the premises.

It was business as usual for surrounding businesses, but a shop next to the mall was closed as workers and customers were in shock .

A group of about 50 people watched as the bodies were wrapped in foil by forensic officials, and cartridges were marked by the police.

Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli said it was alleged that two armed men stormed into one of the shops.

“It is alleged that one of the shop assistants was held at gunpoint … At this stage, the information is very sketchy. However, there was a shootout between one of the armed men and another businessman.”

Police are investigating a case of attempted murder, attempted business robbery, and an inquest after two suspected robbers died. 

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