Police bust duo linked to gunpoint robberies of learners

Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape – Two male suspects have been arrested in Lusikisiki after they were found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and linked to a series of armed robberies targeting high school learners, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.

According to SAPS, off-duty members of the OR Tambo District Task Team responded to a complaint of an armed robbery in the Lungqongqweni locality on Tuesday, 7 April 2026.

Upon arrival, police arrested two suspects from the same area who were found in possession of a 9mm pistol with an erased serial number and one live round of ammunition.

Police said the suspects had allegedly been robbing high school learners in the area at gunpoint.

“The suspects, armed with a 9mm pistol, were robbing high school learners residing in the locality,” SAPS said.

Community members reportedly intervened and cornered the suspects before police arrived on the scene and effected the arrest.

Officers also recovered two cellphones that had been stolen during an earlier armed robbery on Friday, 3 April 2026, in which learners were robbed of their belongings, including cash.

“The duo was positively linked to the armed robbery that occurred on that particular Friday, where two cellphones and cash were robbed,” police added.

The suspects are expected to face charges related to armed robbery and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Investigations are ongoing.