Two men have been arrested in connection with the viral social media robbery. File Picture
A dramatic social media video showing a young man being dragged alongside a speeding vehicle has led to the arrest of two suspects in a violent Free State robbery case.
Parkweg Crime Prevention Unit in Bloemfontein, working alongside local authorities, arrested the suspects, aged 24 and 32, following an intensive investigation into the incident that occurred in the early hours of November 3 in Parkwest.
Acting on intelligence reports, police tracked down the first suspect at a residence in Bloemanda, where he was caught attempting to leave with a bag of clothing. The second arrest followed shortly after at Hostel 1 in Bloemfontein.
“This is after a video was seen making rounds on social media where on November 3 at about 6am, the 20-year-old victim was attacked and robbed by suspects in a dark grey Mazda while walking in John Knox Street, Parkwest,” said police spokesperson, Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli.
The occupants knocked him to the ground before stealing two mobile phones from his pockets.
In a desperate attempt to recover his property, the victim grabbed onto the car door handle as the vehicle sped away, resulting in him being dragged a fair distance before falling onto the tarmac.
This car is allegedly going around and robbing people around Universitas and Brandwag in Bloemfontein. pic.twitter.com/ql9P0zGtcv
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) November 3, 2024
“Parkweg police were made aware of the incident and the vehicle was traced and found in Kgotsong, Bloemfontein area,” said Kareli.
Police are continuing their enquiries to locate the stolen mobile phones and any other property taken during the incident.
Medical personnel treated the victim at a local hospital for injuries sustained during the ordeal. He has since been discharged.
The suspects face serious charges, including attempted murder and common robbery.
They are scheduled to appear before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Friday, November 8.
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