According to head of media communications in the SAPS, Brig Vishnu Naidoo, members of the SAPS National Intervention Unit (NIU) pulled over a minibus carrying a group of male occupants.
“The passengers apparently consisted of illegal miners and their so-called ‘protectors’,” said Naidoo.
“Immediately after the vehicle was stopped, a shootout ensued, resulting in one NIU member being shot and wounded.”
Naidoo added that, during the incident, six illegal miners were shot and one died on the scene.
The wounded illegal miners were taken to hospital under police guard.
Five men were arrested and five unlicensed firearms were seized.
The police officer is in a stable condition in a local hospital.
A case of attempted murder and being in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition was opened at the Benoni SAPS.
Also read:
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 2006
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
