A well-known Sibasa businessman lost more than R40 000 worth of stock, after a group of robbers attacked his business in Sibasa at the weekend.
Mr Ben Sumbana (39) who owns Masala Liquor Store in Sibas, said that his customers were quenching their thirst on Friday evening after a hot day's work, when "a large group of around 100 people," some carrying big bags, stormed into his business.
Sumbana said that he was busy serving customers when the mob, who were armed with an assortment of weapons including stones and bricks, arrived and told all the clients to move out of the building. "They chased my customers away before breaking the lights and windows. They demanded money and liquor. We did not did not give them money, but they proceeded to take the liquor, while my staff and I hid outside in the yard of the business. We could see them carrying out large bags and crates of liquor," said Sumbana.
He said that the incident came as a surprise because he has a good working relationship with the local community and has not angered the community in any way. "I have been running this business for some time now, and I have made many friends and customers since arriving here. I do not know why people could just come and demand money, take our liquor and also damage our business," added Sumbana.
He said that the incident affected his business negatively. "My staff and my customers are very traumatised. We are losing a lot in terms of business," Sumbana continued.
Sumbana said he believes that a criminal element is at work in the area. "I am not deterred, I am going to local structures to discuss the crime situation in the area. We cannot stop the business and we will again be open in a few days' time," he added.
According to the police spokesperson, major Mashudu Malelo, they have opened a malicious damage to property case; "and it's a matter of time before we arrest the perpetrators."