A Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officer and bystander were shot and wounded during a shoot-out with suspects in Bez Valley.
The shooting occurred on Wednesday, March 12.
Warrant Officer Richard Munyai, the Jeppe SAPS communications officer, said two metro police officers were patrolling when they saw a VW Polo Playa suddenly turn and face on-coming traffic at the corner of 1st Street and 7th Avenue.
“The officers followed them and stopped the car. The driver of the Polo exited the car and approached the police officers. The other suspects remained in the vehicle,” said W/O Munyai.
He said that while the officers were checking the man’s driver’s license, one of the suspects exited the Polo and started shooting at the police officers.
“The officers returned fire and a shoot-out ensued between the officers and the four suspects. One of the officers was shot. He sustained injuries to the right arm and right side of his hip,” said W/O Munyai.
One suspect, who was shot, tried to run away but fell down. He died at the scene. One suspect was shot in the foot and the other two fled the scene on foot.
“Two bystanders were injured during the shoot-out. One bystander was shot in the arm and another fell while trying to run away. The injured officer and suspect were taken to hospital. They have been discharged since. Two firearms and 28 empty cartridges where found on the scene,” said W/O Munyai.
A case of attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearm was opened.
There was another shoot-out later that night.
Police officers received a complaint about a business burglary at a company in Cleveland Road.
Constable Mpho Mashakane, the Cleveland SAPS communications officer said, “Police officers responded to the complaint and were told that security guards were chasing the suspects on the railway line close by. Police officers from the Jeppe SAPS responded to the complaint. On arrival, the police officers stopped their vehicles at the top of the railway bridge and flashed the blue lights.”
One suspect tried to run away. Const Mashakane said the man was told to stop. Instead, he started shooting at the police officers.
“The officers returned fire and the suspect collapsed.
“He died at the scene. A firearm was confiscated,” said Const Mashakane.
Other suspects are still on the run.
Following the shooting in Bez Valley, Clr Carlos da Rocha, of ward 66, expressed his dismay.
“I am upset about the officer and bystanders who were injured. I proudly commend the JMPD officers from ward 66 for being alert and pulling the vehicle over. I commend them for their bravery shown in trying to keep residents safe. I believe officers like these make a positive difference in our lives. I wish the officer and residents a speedy recovery,” he said.
