Montecasino counts the cost of robbery

NOW Media's own journalist, Leonard Neill was witness to the chaos that erupted at Montecasino in Fourways, Johannesburg on Tuesday night when 19 robbers, some of whom wielded AK-47 assault rifles and hammers laid siege to the complex by holding up three jewellery stores.
Neill, a part-time journalist working for Freight and Trading Weekly described to Travel Now what occurred. "My wife and I entered the resort at around 20h00 when we heard what sounded like fireworks and later breaking glass. Soon after that we heard voices yelling 'lie down' and 'they're shooting at us'. We then realised that an armed robbery was underway and were ushered into a nearby pub. We remained behind locked doors for about 15 minutes after which we were told that it was safe to leave. The area around the jewellery stores were laden with strewn glass and overturned tables from nearby eateries. Patrons at the casino seemed unphased by the incident and continued gambling into the night."
In a statement, Montecasino's general manager, Gavin Rimmer said the resort was pleased that its current security measures contributed to ensuring that no one was hurt and that Montecasino was able to provide trauma counselling for customers and staff who were affected by the incident. "We have a high security presence at Montecasino, with state of the art high-tech security procedures and equipment, and comprehensive camera surveillance," said Rimmer.
He added that the size and precision of the operation would have challenged any security preparation. "We are reassessing our security in the light of what has happened, and are working with the police and our security advisors. In the short term, armed response vehicles have been strategically positioned on an around the property. In addition, security presence has been heightened and access is being controlled," he said.
"We regard security and the safety of our patrons and staff as our highest priority, and we will do everything in our power to try to prevent such an incident from reoccurring," concluded Rimmer.
Meanwhile, Caesars Gauteng's marketing director, Mark Jakins told Travel Now that the incident was very unfortunate and that it could further tarnish perceptions abroad of Johannesburg being an unsafe destination. "Even though our security standards at the resort are first class, we may need to double check that everything is up to scratch," said Jakins.
The incident was captured on surveillance cameras, which are currently being reviewed to assist the police in their investigations.
The value of the goods stolen from the stores is yet unknown and the robbers are still at large.

(Miguel de Sousa)