Rival zama zama groups turn guns on JMPD officers investigating illegal mining leads
shootout between the two rival groups turned on JMPD members when they arrived on the scene. The officers returned fire.
Update: February 21:
Following additional investigations into the Primrose shootout between rival zama zama groups in Primrose on February 20, it is believed the shootout is linked to the Crown Interchange robberies allegedly involving illegal miners.
Law enforcement members were caught in a gun battle with illegal miners in Primrose at Shamrock Road shortly after reports surfaced of motorists being robbed on the M1.
A shootout between the two rival groups turned on JMPD members when they arrived on the scene. The officers returned fire.
The Joburg metro officers responded to the Primrose incident as they were monitoring illegal mining activities, following the alleged robbery of motorists on the same day.
The officers subsequently arrested eight men on the crime scene, which was congested by the JMPD tactical response unit and Primrose SAPS members.
One of the eight suspects sustained serious injuries.
“We believe the Primrose shootout is connected to the M1 robberies allegedly involving illegal miners,” said JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla.
Previously reported:
Rumours about shooting between rival zama zama groups in Primrose on February 20 remain unconfirmed.
Germiston City News awaits comment to an urgent media inquiry sent to Gauteng SAPS.
Also read: Primrose CPF intensifies fight against murder and illegal mining
This follows reports from Gauteng Community Police Board about an “active crime scene” involving shooting on Shamrock Road.
It was later reported that law enforcement and security companies responded to the scene.
Also read: Illegal mining under scrutiny in Primrose
At 18:00 the area was closed to traffic. Motorists were advised to use alternative routes.
Ward Clr Wendy Morgan later advised that roads had been reopened.
This came after alerts were issued on Tuesday afternoon advising drivers about the “active crime scene (shooting)” in Primrose.
Social media users stated that the shooting involved rival zama zama groups.
Gauteng SAPS acknowledged receipt of GCN’S media inquiry.
