By Staff Reporter
BETHLEHEM — A coordinated operation by Bohlokong police and the Bethlehem Public Order Police has led to the arrest of four suspects linked to a business robbery reported last month, with an unlicensed firearm and stolen property recovered.
According to Thabo Mofutsanyana district police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring, the robbery occurred on Thursday, 28 November 2025, at about 19:30, when a 25-year old foreign national was inside his tuckshop in Bohlokong.
“It is alleged that four suspects entered the shop, one of them armed with a firearm, and robbed the victim of an undisclosed amount of cash, a cellphone and car keys before fleeing on foot,” said Mophiring.
A case of business robbery was subsequently opened.On 14 December 2025, police acted on information received and arrested the first suspect, aged 35, in Bohlokong.
Mophiring said further intelligence led Bohlokong police to enlist the assistance of Bethlehem Public Order Police. The team proceeded to Extension 1, Bohlokong, where three more suspects aged 40, 46 and 47 were arrested at a house later the same day.
The suspects were found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. Police also recovered a cellphone, car keys and a knife. The firearm was circulated and confirmed to have been reported stolen in Phuthaditjhaba.
All four suspects have been charged and are expected to appear before the Bethlehem Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 17 December 2025. Three of the suspects face additional charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Free State police have praised the dedication and teamwork of the officers involved, as well as the community members whose information led to the arrests.
Police have also urged business owners to avoid operating late at night, warning that criminals often pose as customers to commit robberies.
