A group of suspected robbers attempted to shoot their way to freedom after arousing the suspicion of EMPD officers in Brakpan yesterday afternoon (Monday).
The four men were arrested following a high-speed car chase and shoot-out, during which all four sustained injuries.
According to EMPD spokesperson Kobeli Mokheseng, officers from the EMPD Kwa-Thema precinct were on their way to report for afternoon duty at 1pm when they came across a suspected stolen vehicle in Brenthurst.
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The blue Ford Focus, which was reportedly stolen in Honeydew in June last year, was suspected of being used in a spate of house robberies in Ekurhuleni.
“When the four occupants in the Focus noticed a branded EMPD vehicle approaching, they sped off along Collins Street,” said Mokheseng.
“Officers called for backup on the two-way radio and the chase ensued.”
The driver of the Ford Focus allegedly lost control of the vehicle at the corner of Voortrekker Road and End Street in Dalview and crashed into a stationary Chevrolet SUV.
“The occupants alighted and started shooting at officers,” said Mokheseng.
“Our highly trained members retaliated, injuring all four suspects, who were later transported to the nearest hospital under police guard for medical treatment due to the slight injuries they sustained.”
During a search of the vehicle, officers found two firearms, the serial numbers of which had been tampered with, along with 20 live rounds of ammunition, four plasma television sets, jewellery and other household appliances.
EMPD chief of police Jabulani Mapiyeye arrived on the scene and offered support to officers involved and recommended counselling.
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The suspects, who are aged between 37 and 42, face charges of possession of suspected stolen goods, possession of a stolen motor vehicle, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as attempted murder.
“As soon as they are medically fit they will appear in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court,” said Mokheseng, adding that in-depth investigations are underway.
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