According to residents, Bezuidenhout Valley has become a ‘no-go’ area as crime is escalating.
Residents expressed these view following a shoot-out been the SAPS and the occupants of a blue BMW recently.
Mr Tony Jardim, a resident, said he heard gun shots just after 10pm.
“I went to see what was happening. The shooting happened on 5th Street and North Avenue. The two occupants of the BMW opened fire at the police vehicle after police officers ordered them to stop to conduct a search,” said Mr Jardim.
Mr Jardim commended the police officers for their work.
“The police need safety measures though to deal with criminals because the criminals have shown that they have no fear of the law. How daring are these criminals? They want to show that they have no fear for the police, and they are in charge. As residents, we say no to that. Thank God our policemen are safe,” he added.
Mr Jardim urged the community to be vigilant because he has seen the BMW a number of times driving around the Bez Valley area.
The two occupants in the blue BMW were allegedly seen trying to hijack an Audi Q7 shortly before the shoot-out.
Mr Jardim also said residents believe the occupants of the following vehicles are armed and he again urged residents to be vigilant.
The vehicles include a black BMW, a blue BMW and a taxi with a Limpopo registration number.
Mr Jardim warned the community against approaching he cars. He said residents should rather contact the SAPS immediately.
Warrant Officer Richard Munyai, the communications officer for the Jeppe SAPS, confirmed the shoot-out between the police and the occupants of the blue BMW.
“No one was injured but the state vehicle has about 10 bullets holes in it,” said W/O Munyai.
No arrest have been made yet.
