They said they used a car to smash through the front doors, but the alleged robbers were not able to get away with much as “the security in the store is really locked down”.
They said the fog cannons went off immediately, and the staff working were able to move away quickly, without confrontation.
“Everyone’s okay… there is quite a bit of damage though.”
A getaway car was waiting for the robbers in the forecourt, which they sped away in minutes after breaking in.
Police and security had already been at the store this morning, with forensics coming later on. They said they were impressed by the quick response of the police.
The getaway car then travelled about 15km north, where they crashed at the Warspite Ave and Mungavin Ave roundabout.
A police spokesperson said the crashed at 6am.
“One of the vehicles was wanted in relation to a ram raid at a Newlands service station that occurred about 5am.
“It failed to stop when signalled and was travelling through the roundabout when the crash happened.”
The spokesperson said there were no reports of serious injuries and Police are speaking with two young people.
The Serious Crash Unit is investigating, and diversions are currently in place.
The spokesperson said the road is expected to be closed for some time.
Sign up to Herald Premium Editor’s Picks, delivered straight to your inbox every Friday. Editor-in-Chief Murray Kirkness picks the week’s best features, interviews and investigations. Sign up for Herald Premium here.
