An armed robbery at Edgars in Newcastle Mall yesterday evening 30 May has raised fresh questions about security at one of Newcastle's busiest shopping centres.
According to information received, a group of men allegedly entered the store after closing time and fled with bags containing stolen items.
It is further alleged that the suspects left the scene in three separate vehicles.
A witness, who asked not to be named, said she was having dinner and celebrating a friend's birthday when she heard people screaming and running.
"We suddenly heard chaos, with people screaming and running. The next moment, about 10 men carrying a white plastic bag stretched full of stuff ran past. The man in front was holding a handgun," the witness said.
At this stage, it is not yet clear whether anyone was injured during the robbery.
Newcastle Mall management confirmed that they were aware of the incident, but said they could not provide further details while investigations are underway.
"We are working with the local SAPS and remain committed to ensuring a safe shopping environment for all," management said.
The latest incident has brought renewed attention to past armed robberies at the centre and surrounding retail spaces.
In previous years, retail stores in the Newcastle area, including stores at Newcastle Mall and Theku Plaza, have also been targeted by armed suspects. Those earlier incidents involved stolen goods, firearms and suspects fleeing before police could make immediate arrests.
The incidents do not prove that the same people are involved, but they do explain why shoppers and workers are asking harder questions about mall security, response time and closing-hour safety.
For mall management and law enforcement, the issue is now bigger than one store. It is about public confidence.
Shoppers want to know they can visit the mall safely. Store workers want to know they are protected, especially during closing hours. Businesses want reassurance that security measures are strong enough to prevent repeat attacks.
Police are expected to investigate how the suspects entered the store, what was taken, and the vehicles allegedly used to leave the scene.
Until more details are confirmed, the central question remains: how can one of Newcastle's busiest shopping centres better protect shoppers, staff and businesses from armed robberies?