A group of 15 men was arrested at Dube and Heidelberg roads, Wattville, on January 20.

According to Benoni Flying Squad (BFS) spokesperson Warrant Officer Grant Giblin, officers were monitoring a community WhatsApp group when a message asking for assistance came through at 09:00.

“The message claimed that two rival zama zama groups were involved in a gun battle, with one person already shot and killed,” he said.

“BFS members, Actonville SAPS, local private security, the EMPD K9 Unit, and Germiston Flying Squad responded. Upon arrival, they found the two factions in a large veld, actively exchanging fire.”

While approaching the scene, the suspects turned their attention to the law enforcers, firing at the vehicles while retreating into dense vegetation.

“Responding officers fell into a tactical formation, advancing on foot during the hail of gunfire,” said Giblin.

“Following a tense exchange of fire, the teams successfully surrounded the group, resulting in their arrest.”

Two 9mm Norinco pistols with 38 live rounds of ammunition, a 357 Magnum revolver with five live rounds, as well as a large bag filled with loose rounds of various calibers of rounds was found in the men’s possession.

“Investigations have revealed that one of the Norinco pistols was reported as stolen during a murder in Boksburg,” he said.

“The body of a man, suspected to have been fatally wounded during the initial skirmish, was found among nearby shacks.”

The suspects are facing charges of possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of unlicensed ammunition, contravention of the immigration act, and attempted murder of police officers.
Investigations into the matter are continuing.

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