The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) responded swiftly to an alleged robbery on the M1 highway and apprehended eight suspects following a fierce exchange of gunfire in Germiston.
M1 highway robbery suspects in custody: Here’s what we know
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What Happened During the Arrest?
On Tuesday, JMPD’s Tactical Response Unit confronted a group of armed individuals suspected of robbing motorists on the Crown interchange of the M1 highway.
The operation led to a shootout at the intersection of Main Reef Road and Shamrock Street, Primrose, resulting in the arrest of eight men, one of whom sustained serious injuries.
“As the officers arrived at the given location, they saw two groups of males shooting at each other. When the suspects noticed the officers they started shooting at them and the officers returned fire. Amid the shootout, the officers saw a suspect fall to the ground, and backup was called,” JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla announced.
The operation was part of a broader effort to combat the scourge of illegal mining and ensure the safety of Johannesburg’s residents. Following a complaint about armed illegal miners from the notorious ‘zama zamas‘, the officers were dispatched to the scene, leading to the eventual shootout.
JMPD Acting Chief of Police Angie Mokasi praised the officers’ bravery, stating,
“The valiant efforts shown by the officers in tackling this scourge of illegal mining and ensuring the safety of residents are commendable.”
Who Are the Suspects?
The arrested individuals include South African and Lesotho nationals, now facing charges of attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms, and illegal mining.
They were detained at Primrose SAPS for further legal proceedings.
Eight suspects are now in custody and expected to appear in court soon.
