GAUTENG – A coordinated operation involving multiple Gauteng law enforcement agencies resulted in a fierce shootout on Friday, 7 November, leaving four cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery suspects dead and one arrested.
The dramatic confrontation occurred around 17:30 after police acted on intelligence detailing a planned CIT robbery near Bronkhorstspruit. The operation was a collaborative effort involving various units from the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing, and private security partners under the “Eyes and Ears Initiative” with Business Against Crime South Africa.
Dual shootouts and recovery of rifles
The first exchange of fire took place on the R25 towards Bronkhorstspruit. A team on observation spotted a white Fiat, and as they attempted to stop the vehicle, the suspects immediately opened fire, initiating a shootout. Three suspects were fatally wounded at this scene, where police recovered a pistol and a rifle.
A second vehicle linked to the suspects, a white Toyota Corolla, was tracked to the Welbekend area. When police tried to intercept it, another shootout ensued, resulting in one suspect being fatally shot. A fifth suspect managed to flee the scene on foot. Police recovered an AK-47 rifle with two magazines from the second vehicle.
Arrest and recovery of hijacked vehicle and explosives
Further investigation led the specialized units to a suspects’ safe house in Dennilton, Limpopo Province. At this location, authorities recovered explosives and a hijacked Mercedes Benz that was originally reported stolen in Enkangala, Tshwane. One suspect was successfully arrested at the safe house.
Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana commended the officers involved, stating, “We are working together in our commitment to ensuring that those who intend to commit crimes in the province are dealt with swiftly and decisively. I commend the officers involved in this operation for their bravery and professionalism.”
The swift and decisive action is a key focus of the ongoing Safer Festive Season operations. Police are currently investigating cases of attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearms, among other crimes.
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