Shoot-out with armed suspect results in one death

A shoot-out between security officers and alleged robbers in Forest Hill resulted in the death of one alleged robber. The incident occurred during a house robbery in the area. Rosebank police spokesperson Sergeant Bongi

Mdletshe said the crime took place on 25 September. He said the complainant reported that the daughter of the family observed several suspects gaining access to the premises on the home’s camera system.

“A total of six suspects entered the property. One of the suspects pointed a firearm at the family and told them to lay down. They started ransacking the house, taking all the appliances. However, as they were busy, a panic button went off and in a split second 24/7 Security attended to that alarm. They found them inside the property,” Mdletshe explained.

He added that a shoot-out ensued between the security guards and the suspects. “They started running in different directions, leaving all the things they had taken outside the property. They were using two vehicles one Havaal and one bakkie.”

Mdletshe continued, “During the shoot-out, one suspect was shot while trying to escape and died on the scene. The other five suspects fled but one of the five failed to jump into the open bakkie and was arrested by security.

“So, at this point in time, we are looking for anyone out there who has information regarding the four suspects that fled. The arrested suspect appeared in court on 28 September and his bail was opposed. He was charged with house robbery and possession of an unlicensed firearm. One firearm was found at the crime scene.”

The police spokesperson extended his gratitude to 24/7 Security for the job well-done whose net result was that the family and 24/7 security officers were unharmed.

The security company is proud of the brave armed reaction officers who engaged six well-armed suspects. The fast reaction time of the 24/7 command centre and officers was critical, as mere seconds can have a devastating result with these types of violent crimes.

General manager for reaction and tactical at 24/7 Security Sean Mooney said, “We urge all community members to pay attention to the details of their home security. All family and staff members must be familiar with security protocols, and panic buttons must be carried at all times. It is very important to have your security company’s number on speed dial.”

Details: 24/7 Security 011 444 2237; Rosebank Police Station 011 778 4700.

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