Four suspects were shot and killed in a shootout between the Task Force members and the cash-in-transit gang in Secunda, Mpumalanga on Monday evening.
The Hawks in Mpumalanga received information about a planned cash-in-transit heist along the Delmas road and a swift operation involving the Hawks, members of Crime Intelligence and the Task Force was subsequently planned.
At around 17:00 the suspects were about to execute their plan when the Task Force members intercepted them. The suspects started firing shots at the police who retaliated; killing four suspects instantly and injuring two in the process.
During a high speed chase which ensued the driver of the police vehicle lost control of the vehicle and it capsized, killing him on the spot. Two officers survived with critical injuries.
One of the suspects who were shot and killed was a former police officer who was dismissed from the service after he was found guilty of attempted robbery and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
The injured police officers were airlifted to hospital where they are receiving treatment. Two injured suspects are recuperating at hospital under police guard.
Police seized four vehicles, two AK 47s, one R5 rifle and two pistols, of which one was found to have been used in a robbery in Marble Hall.
The suspects will appear before the Evender Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, facing charges of murder and attempted robbery.
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) Lieutenant General Mthandazo Ntlemeza sent his condolences to the family of the police officer who lost his life in the line of duty. He wished those in hospital a speedy recovery and described them as true police officers who put their lives on the firing line to protect and serve.
“We are saddened that we lost our member in such brutal circumstances. He died serving the nation and for that we shall always remember his bravery. He was a true example of a fearless cop who was determined to serve his country with distinction. We find solace in that four suspects will never live to commit more crimes. We wish a speedy recovery to two of our members and our thoughts and prayers are with the family of our fallen hero” said Lieutenant General Ntlemeza.
