Police Launch Investigation After A Man With Ak-47 Rifle Accused Of Attempting To Kill

A suspected cash-in-transit robbery plot ended in a deadly shootout in Jeppestown, Johannesburg, after heavily armed suspects allegedly opened fire on police officers during a high-stakes operation.

Gauteng police are investigating cases of murder, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition following the dramatic confrontation, which left one suspect dead and two others on the run.

The operation was conducted by a multidisciplinary team comprising the South African Police Service (SAPS) Tactical Response Team (TRT), Gauteng Traffic Airwing, CAP Specialised Unit, Tracker Connect and the SAPS Investigation of Violence and Organised Crime.

According to information provided, the team received intelligence about suspects allegedly planning to carry out a cash-in-transit robbery. Officers subsequently tracked a white Suzuki Ertiga travelling along the N3 highway in the direction of George Goch Hostel.

The pursuit reportedly took a violent turn when the occupants of the vehicle allegedly opened fire on police members, triggering an exchange of gunfire.

However one suspect allegedly continued shooting at the pursuing officers with an AK-47 rifle. He was fatally wounded during the ensuing shootout.

Police recovered an AK-47 rifle, two magazines and ammunition during the operation. The firearm and ammunition are expected to form part of the ongoing investigation.

Two other suspects managed to escape on foot, prompting police to launch a manhunt to track them down. Their identities and whereabouts have not been disclosed.

The intensity of the confrontation was further highlighted by the fact that two law-enforcement vehicles were struck by gunfire. No further details about injuries to officers were provided.

Investigations into the shooting and the suspected planned robbery are continuing. Police are expected to pursue leads to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident and locate the two outstanding suspects.

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