Security guard killed in R21 shooting honoured, colleague still in hospital
The officer and his colleague, 22-year-old Francois Swart, who has since died in hospital, were ambushed by a gang of about nine gunmen while travelling along the R21 north in a vehicle containing gold.
The second security officer who was injured during the R21 shooting on March 19 is said to be in a stable condition in hospital.
“He is in a critical but stable condition. He has undergone an operation and was expected to have another operation today (March 22),” said Gerald Groenewald from Sec Pros Security.
New evidence that has recently come to light suggests that the officer didn’t, in fact, sustain any gunshot wounds as previously reported. He is said to have suffered multiple blunt force injuries resulting from impact.
The thugs, who were seen driving in two Volkswagen Golf vehicles, started to open fire on the security guards’ Toyota Land Cruiser, as it was off-ramping from the N12 onto the R21.
The shooting continued until the Griffiths off-ramp.
Both victims were rushed to hospital, but Swart succumbed to his injuries the following day. Their vehicle was left riddled with bullet holes down the freeway embankment.
It is believed the robbers were targeting the gold.
Police confirmed the suspects are still at large. Investigators are appealing to members of the public who may have information to contact their nearest police station or call 10111.
A wreath-laying ceremony in honour of Francois Swart was held at the Griffiths Road off-ramp on March 21, where his friends and family also erected two crosses in honour of him. Photos courtesy of Sec Pros Security.
ALSO READ:
WATCH: Car left riddled with bullet holes in R21 ambush
UPDATE: Victim of R21 ambush dies
FOLLOW US:
For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Benoni City Times, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail.
