A police reservist and two security guards were shot and critically wounded in an armed robbery at Carnival City on the East Rand early on Monday (28/01/2013) morning, police said. A group of armed men entered the casino shortly after midnight and headed to the vault, Captain Julia Claassen said.
They ordered patrons to lie on the floor and used a hammer and a grinder to open the vault. The gang removed an undisclosed amount of money. Six patrons were assaulted. A shift manager called the police.
"When they tried to flee, a shootout ensued between the suspects and police, in which two security guards and one reserve officer, from Brakpan police station, were shot.” The three were admitted to hospital in a critical condition.
No arrests had been made yet.
Carnival City said the members of the gang were aged between 15 and 25. They were travelling in five vehicles.
"We are currently assessing the value of the money and are co-operating fully with the SAPS who are investigating the circumstances surrounding the robbery,” it said in a statement. - Sapa
