Case against three arrested after Bedfordview shoot-out postponed to May

A tip-off to the Joburg Flying Squad led to the arrest of three suspects following a shootout at Eastgate Shopping Centre on April 19.

Also read: Three arrested following shootout in Bedfordview

The suspects were cornered after a high-speed chase that started on the N3 Van Buuren Road exit and ended with a brief exchange of fire in a parking area of Eastgate.

The suspects’ vehicle collided with a pot plant and stopped and two stationary vehicles were damaged during the crossfire.

Joburg Flying Squad spokesperson Sgt Desmond Subramoney said five suspects, traveling in a Ford Fiesta, attempted to rob a Dion Wired Store in Boksburg earlier that day, but failed.

“The Flying Squad responded to a vehicle lookout after the failed robbery. Officers later identified the vehicle on Van Buuren Road in Bedfordview and gave chase.

“Police ordered them to stop, but they fired shots and officers returned fire.

“They were cornered and the three were arrested. Two managed to escape. The three made their first court appearance in the Germiston Magistrate’s Court,” said Subramoney.

Eastgate Shopping Centre management said SAPS officers apprehended the suspects after the pursuit made its way to Eastgate’s rooftop,” said Eastgate Shopping Centre marketing manager, Alana Hoskin.

“The three were apprehended without injury. The Eastgate’s tactical teams are assisting the SAPS where possible. The safety and security of our shoppers and tenants are of utmost importance.

“We urge all the tenants, staff and customers to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately to either centre security or the SAPS,” said Hoskin.

Hurbetin Louw, regional manager at The National Prosecuting Authority said that the accused appeared in the court on April 23.

“Matters are still under investigation and the case was remanded to April 25 provisionally to arrange a bail application date,” said Louw.

Louw said that the case was then remanded to May 9 for a formal bail application.

For more news and interesting articles, like Bedfordview and Edenvale NEWS on Facebook or follow us on Twitter