The police are on a manhunt for more suspects involved in the incident.
Provincial head of corporate communication for the police Brigadier Neville Malila said the three suspects were charged for armed robbery, hijacking and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
He said it was alleged that two police officers were approached by suspects while eating lunch at a food outlet in Rabie Ridge. Malila said the suspects pointed a firearm at the two officers, disarmed and locked them in the back of their patrol vehicle and fled with the firearms. Malila said the suspects were joined by three others and they hijacked a vehicle and fled the scene.
“The two officers who were locked inside the police vehicle were assisted by community members to open the vehicle. The members called for backup and a chase ensued. The suspects lost control of their vehicle and fired several shots at the police who returned fire,” said Malila. The three suspects, between the ages of 25 and 30 years old, were arrested.
Malila said the police confiscated three firearms, two of which were those that were robbed from the police. He said the third firearm confiscated was linked to an incident where Metro police officers were shot at and robbed of their firearms in September.
He said that police were searching for the outstanding suspects. “Investigations in the matter continuing. Police are looking at the possibility of linking the suspects to other crimes in the area,” said Malila.
He said the three suspects would appear in the Tembisa Magistrate Court soon.
He said no injuries were reported. Debriefing by Employee Health and Wellness was arranged for the police officers.
“Police are appealing to anyone who may assist with information to phone Crime Stop,” said Malila.
Bryanston resident and founding member of eblockwatch, Andre Snyman posted a video of the incident on YouTube and appealled to the public to help the police.
Details: 08600 10111 or SMS 32211.
