Three suspects who robbed a Pakistani shop at Calcutta, near Bushbuckridge and took R25 000 in cash, airtime vouchers, as well as cigarettes were no match for members of the SAPS when they were outwitted in their own game.
The suspects, who were travelling in a blue Volkswagen Polo, which had been stolen in Matsulu, near Malalane, are reported to have proceeded to Hazyview where they also robbed a filling station.
The police immediately launched a manhunt for the villains and they were traced to Mahushu at Masoyi. Upon spotting the men and women in blue, the villains fled the scene and in the process fired shots at the police who in turn retaliated. As a result of the shoot-out, two suspects were hit on the legs whilst the third one was certified dead at the scene.
Three pistols and a rifle were confiscated at the scene and the two suspects were taken to hospital where they have been admitted. They will appear to answer for their misdemeanours at the various Magistrate’s Courts as and when they become fit to do so.
The IPID was activated and they will also conduct their own investigation.
The Provincial Commissioner of Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma has reiterated that the police will not hesitate to protect their lives and those of vulnerable community members with the resources they have.