Shoppers at Eastgate Shopping Centre in Johannesburg are back to their routines following a brazen robbery on Thursday, 14 November, that disrupted the morning’s trade.
Story Summary:
- Eastgate Mall has resumed normal operations following a robbery on 14 November.
- Sources allege that the robbers targeted the iStore and Woolworths.
- The South African Police Service (SAPS) is investigating, with no arrests reported so far.
Eastgate Mall robbery: Here’s everything we know
Private security sources claim the iStore and Woolworths were the primary targets during the heist, though Eastgate management has yet to confirm this.
The incident occurred around 09:15 when a group of armed suspects reportedly stormed the mall.
Community WhatsApp groups shared unverified reports that shots were fired, causing panic among early shoppers.
Security personnel swiftly responded, and the mall was secured shortly thereafter.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Eastgate Shopping Centre confirmed the robbery, stating:
“Eastgate Shopping Centre is aware of a robbery on Thursday, 14 November, at approximately 09h15 at a store on the upper level. The safety and security of shoppers, staff, and tenants is of the utmost importance to Eastgate Shopping Centre, and the South African Police (SAPS) are currently on the scene investigating the incident.”
The mall reassured customers that operations would continue as normal while investigations are underway.
What we know about the targeted stores
While the names of the robbed stores have not been officially confirmed, multiple sources point to the iStore and Woolworths as the main targets.
According to reports circulating on local community groups, the iStore had recently received a shipment of high-value electronics, making it an attractive target for criminals.
Woolworths, a popular retailer located near the iStore, was also mentioned in connection with the robbery, though it remains unclear whether it was directly hit or simply caught in the commotion.
Both stores reopened on Friday, resuming trade amid heightened security.
Law enforcement officials, including SAPS and private security teams, were on the scene shortly after the robbery.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the number of suspects involved or whether any arrests have been made.
