Four suspected armed robbers were fatally wounded and another suspect was injured and arrested during a crime intelligence-driven operation in Yeoville, Johannesburg, early on Wednesday morning.
Gauteng Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said the operation was carried out at around 05:30 after intelligence indicated that a group of suspects was allegedly involved in a series of armed robberies targeting travellers from OR Tambo International Airport.
A joint law enforcement team comprising SAPS Counter Intelligence, the SAPS Gauteng Tactical Response Team (TRT), the Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing, CAP Specialised Operations and Tracker Connect acted on the information.
She said the suspects were travelling in a Suzuki Swift fitted with false registration plates.
“Officers attempted to intercept the vehicle in Yeoville, which resulted in a high-speed chase. The suspects allegedly opened fire on law enforcement officers, leading to a shootout.
Four suspects were fatally wounded during the exchange of gunfire, while a fifth suspect was injured, arrested and is currently under police guard.”
Police also recovered three unlicensed firearms and ammunition at the scene.
A case of murder, attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition has been opened.
The Serious and Violent Crimes Investigations unit will continue with the investigation and profiling of the suspects in collaboration with Crime Intelligence.
The recovered firearms will undergo ballistic testing to determine whether they were used in other criminal activities.
Police have urged members of the public to report criminal activities to SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS mobile application.
