Two members of Boksburg North SAPS were involved in an exchange of gunfire with suspects during a vehicle pursuit in Elandsfontein on August 11.

Bedfordview SAPS communication liaison officer Sergeant Lillian Modiga reported that the members were conducting patrols when they noticed a white Kia with four occupants travelling on the N12 towards Johannesburg.

The members attempted to stop the vehicle; however, the driver failed to comply, resulting in a vehicle pursuit.

The vehicle exited the N12 at the Kraft Road off-ramp and proceeded to Alamein Road in Elandsfontein, where it stopped near SA Metal.

ALSO READ: Shooting on Riley Road in Bedfordview sparks major security response

Modiga said the police members approached the vehicle to inspect the licence disc. The driver of the Kia allegedly exited the vehicle and attempted to fire at the police members. The shot missed, and the members returned fire while taking cover.

During the exchange of gunfire, the suspects allegedly entered the official police vehicle and drove away. The members fired at the fleeing suspects.

Sergeant Modiga said the hijacked police vehicle was later recovered at the corner of Barbara Road and Olifant Street, Elandsfontein. The vehicle had sustained multiple bullet holes on the left side.

ALSO READ: Police hunt four suspects after fatal Dunvegan shooting

It is further alleged that the suspects subsequently hijacked a grey Hyundai and fled the scene. The Hyundai was later recovered in the Kempton Park area.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the white Kia was displaying false registration plates. Further checks confirmed that the vehicle had previously been reported hijacked,” reported Modiga.

She added that at the scene, police recovered 20 x 9mm cartridges and one police projector.

Fortunately, she said, no police members were injured during the incident.

Modiga added, “A manhunt for the suspects is underway. The circumstances surrounding the incident are being investigated.

“Bedfordview SAPS condemns the attack on police officials and appeals to anyone who may have information that could assist in the investigation or lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.”