Policeman disarmed in toilet

FOUR armed robbers overpowered a South African police officer on patrol along the Old Limpopo Bridge and disarmed him before taking away his service pistol on Tuesday morning.

Police officer commanding Beitbridge district Chief Superintendent Patrick Majuta said the incident occurred around 2AM.

He said the police officer was part of the team, which was patrolling along the boundary line.

"Initial investigations reveal that the police officer was patrolling along the old Limpopo Bridge with another colleague. During that process the colleague went to relieve himself in the toilet. He was then attacked by four armed robbers who were monitoring their movement," he said.

Chief Supt Majuta said the suspects approached the police officer pointing a pistol at him - threatening to shoot if he resisted their demand.

He said the police officer gave in and the criminals took away his pistol and disappeared.

Chief Supt Majuta said the police officer alerted his colleague and they teamed up to pursue the suspects but failed apprehend them.

"They then contacted us and we are carrying out joint investigations. We are appealing to anyone with information to contact the nearest police station," he said.

Chief Supt Majuta said they were yet to ascertain the type of firearm used in committing the crime.