Robbery at a coffee shop in Gqeberha. Laptops and cellphones stolen. pic.twitter.com/TToaeVmJ0d
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) April 9, 2026
Gqeberha, Eastern Cape – In a brazen midday robbery that has shaken the Nelson Mandela Bay community, armed suspects stormed a popular coffee shop in the heart of the city, making off with laptops, cellphones, and cash. The incident unfolded around 11 AM on Friday at Brew Haven Café on Govan Mbeki Avenue, leaving patrons terrified and the local business reeling.
Eyewitnesses described the chaos: three men, faces masked and wielding firearms, burst through the doors shouting orders. “They demanded everyone’s phones and laptops right away,” said regular customer Sipho Mthembu, 32, who ducked behind the counter. “It was like a movie – quick and scary. They cleared out bags and briefcases in under five minutes.”
Police spokesperson Captain Thabo Ndlovu confirmed the robbery, stating no shots were fired, but two customers suffered minor injuries from shoves during the escape. “The suspects fled in a silver Toyota Corolla, last seen heading towards Motherwell. We’ve recovered a discarded firearm and are reviewing CCTV footage,” Ndlovu said. A manhunt is underway, with roadblocks set up across key routes.
The café, a go-to spot for students and remote workers from nearby Nelson Mandela University, was packed with tech-savvy patrons tapping away on devices. Owner Lerato Jansen praised her staff’s composure: “They protected the till and got everyone down safely. But the loss of customers’ valuables hurts – these are people’s work tools.”
This robbery highlights rising audacious crimes in Gqeberha, where small businesses face increasing threats amid economic pressures. Community leaders urge vigilance: “Lock devices, stay alert, and report suspicious activity,” advised local ward councillor Nomsa Zuma.
As investigations continue, Brew Haven vows to reopen stronger. “Faith and unity will see us through,” Jansen added, echoing the resilience of MzansRobbery at a coffee shop in Gqeberha. Laptops and cellphones stoleni’s spirit