POLITICS

Capitec Bank evacuated in Cape Town suburb as police talk down gunman

It is not a hostage situation, man alone inside administration section of building, say SAPS

Capitec Bank evacuated in Cape Town suburb as police talk down gunman

19 September 2018

Capitec Bank in Voortrekker Street, Bellville, Cape Town was evacuated on Wednesday afternoon as police talked down a gunman who apparently locked himself in.

Provincial police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Andrè Traut said the man was alone inside the administration section of the bank.

"This is not a hostage situation. We are negotiating with him to surrender," Traut said.

He said the man had a demand for the bank but could not reveal further details for operational reasons.

Tygerburger reporter Nielen de Klerk, who is tweeting from the scene, reported that the whole building had been evacuated and curious bystanders had gathered to see what was happening.

News24

UPDATE: Capitec gunman taken into custody

Western Cape police have confirmed that the gunman inside Capitec Bank in Voortrekker Street, Bellville, has been taken into custody.

Capitec communications head Charl Nel told News24 on Wednesday that it was aware of the situation at its BSC building in Bellville where an armed person threatened staff.

"This is an administrative office and call centre where no cash is held on the premises. Capitec Bank employees have been evacuated and no employees or clients are in danger," Nel said via mail.

SAPS had cornered off the area and were in full control, he added.

Tygerburger reporter Nielen de Klerk, who is tweeting from the scene, reported that the whole building had been evacuated and curious bystanders had gathered to see what was happening.

News24