South Africa

Special task force intervenes in Cape Town CBD hostage drama

05 July 2017 - 14:20 By Petru Saal
subscribe Support independent journalism. Subscribe to our digital news package for R80 p/m.
Subscribe now
The scene of Wednesday's hostage drama in central Cape Town.
The scene of Wednesday's hostage drama in central Cape Town.
Image: Anthony Molyneaux

Armed members of a police special task force entered a Cape Town city centre shop on Wednesday as a hostage situation unfolded.

The city centre was brought to a standstill as traffic was diverted and people barred from the vicinity where robbers stormed into Cash Crusaders on the corner of Long and Strand streets.

A tweet from an onlooker appeared to show one of the hostage-takers being arrested. Police spokeswoman Sergeant Noloyiso Rwexana said that she would provide full details soon.

It was unclear how many people were being held hostage. A witness some hostages had been freed while others remained inside.

subscribe Support independent journalism. Subscribe to our digital news package for R80 p/m.
Subscribe now

Most read

  1. ‘We are comforted by your prayers’ — Family of matric pupil who died from snake ... South Africa
  2. ‘Harm reduction is the way, not sin tax’ – tobacco industry on new bill South Africa
  3. Daughter allegedly kills father for threatening her with knife, beating mother South Africa
  4. School pupil stabbed to death in heated argument South Africa
  5. Rapist who left young girl with extensive injuries handed life term South Africa

Latest Videos

Racial slur used in live stream
Murderer slaps police officer after guilty verdict in court