A violent confrontation unfolded on the R59 highway near Alberton on Saturday, where four robbery suspects were killed during a shootout with police.
Story Summary:
- Police engaged in a shootout with four robbery suspects on the R59 near Alberton, resulting in the deaths of all suspects.
- All lanes of the R59 are currently closed between Swartkoppies and Michelle Avenue, and motorists are advised to use alternate routes.
- Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni stated that the suspects were on their way to commit a robbery before police intervention led to the deadly confrontation.
Alberton shooting: Four suspected robbers killed in police shootout
The incident, occurring between Swartkoppies and Michelle Avenue, has led to a complete road closure as police conduct forensic investigations and clear the scene.
Gauteng Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni confirmed that the suspects were intercepted en route to a business robbery in the area.
According to Mthombeni:
“Police attempted to stop the suspects, who then opened fire, leading to a fatal shootout where all four suspects died at the scene.”
A firearm was recovered from the suspects’ vehicle, and the crime scene remains under investigation.
The shooting has forced the closure of all lanes on the R59 in both directions between Swartkoppies and Michelle Avenue.
Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes where possible.
Alternative routes:
- Use the Old Vereeniging Road (R82) for northbound travel.
- The N3 can serve as a viable option for southbound motorists.
Police continue to urge caution as forensics work to secure and reopen the highway.
Here’s footage of the crime scene after the shooting: