A routine visit to an ATM at a local shopping centre in Pioneer Park, Newcastle turned into a harrowing ordeal for a 33-year-old man who fell victim to a knife-point robbery.
According to Newcastle Police reports, the incident occurred on Friday morning, 1 March 2024, just before 6 am, as the man stopped at the shopping centre on John Parks Road.
An official police source detailed the frightening encounter: “The victim was at the ATM withdrawing money when a man approached him from behind. Threatening him with a knife, the suspect demanded all his cash.”
In compliance with the assailant’s demands, the victim withdrew approximately R6000, which was forcibly taken by the suspect before he fled the scene on foot.
Lizzy Arumugam, spokesperson for Newcastle SAPS, confirmed that while no arrests have been made, investigations are underway to apprehend the suspect. In the meantime, residents are urged to exercise caution when withdrawing cash, regardless of the ATM’s location.
Arumugam emphasised the importance of vigilance and awareness of surroundings when conducting transactions, advising individuals to scan the area for any suspicious activity before approaching ATMs.
The incident adds to a concerning trend of rising crime levels within Newcastle. To address the crime levels, the Newcastle CPF for sectors four and five, covering Hutten Heights, Pioneer Park, Schuinshoogte, Aviary Hill, and Amiel Park, will convene a community meeting during the course of March 2024. While the meeting date is pending, residents are urged to collaborate with the local CPF to address crime within Newcastle’s suburbs.
To report information or volunteer, residents can reach out to any of the following individuals from the Newcastle Community Policing Forum:
- Ismaeel Dhalech: 072 136 7677
- Bennie Vorster: 083 406 9379
- Asif: 065 879 2316
- Jan van Rensburg: 076 279 3422
- Belinda Ellor: 071 404 3575
- Theunis Joubert: 083 651 1989
- Deon Laubscher (Magenta): 064 392 0047
- Yusuf: 072 897 6747
- Brian: 063 130 6867
- Shaukat: 063 816 1235
As crime continues to escalate in Newcastle, community engagement becomes pivotal. Share your thoughts and perspectives on the recent events in the comment section below.
Comments 2
There is no Police presence in this town anymore, Why keep putting the community at risk. What is the station commander doing exactly, where are all the new police recruits…
Beautiful Newcastillians let us fight this crime, for that we need to come together with law enforcement, the increase of burglaries in our town is really alarming, it is about time we as ordinary citizens stand-up and come together, because together we can create/formulate great ideas and strategies to combat crime in our beautiful Newcastle.
My Name is Ndumiso From Amajuba Park.
I would gladly volunteer in any way shape or form to help any group fighting against crime
I’m putting my hand up, I hope more Newcastillians can raise their hands as well to keep this town clean and safe.