Four suspects believed to be behind a string of cash-in-transit (CIT) robberies were fatally wounded during a shootout with Gauteng police and other law enforcement officers in Bronkhorstspruit on Friday evening, November 7.

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, the incident occurred at approximately 17:30 after police from Crime Intelligence in Pretoria received information about suspects planning a CIT robbery in the area.

A multidisciplinary team, comprising members of SAPS Counter Intelligence head office, Gauteng Tactical Response Team (TRT), Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit, SAPS Airwing (Pretoria), Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing, DPCI Gauteng Tracking Team, and private security partners from the Eyes and Ears (E2) Initiative, operationalised the information.

“While on observation, the team spotted a white Fiat on the R25 towards Bronkhorstspruit.”

“As officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the suspects opened fire, resulting in a shootout. Three suspects were fatally shot, and a pistol and a rifle were recovered at the scene,” said Masondo.

A second vehicle, a white Toyota Corolla, was later intercepted in the Welbekend area.

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Police again came under fire, and a second exchange of gunfire ensued. One suspect was fatally shot, while another fled on foot.

Officers recovered an AK-47 rifle with two magazines at the scene.

Further investigation led the police to a safe house in Dennilton, Limpopo, where explosives and a hijacked Mercedes-Benz, reportedly taken in Ekangala, Tshwane, were recovered. One suspect was arrested.

Masondo confirmed that, in total, police recovered three firearms, including two rifles, along with loaded magazines and explosives during the operation.

Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana commended the officers for their swift action and professionalism, noting that the operation formed part of the province’s Safer Festive Season campaign.

“We are working together in our commitment to ensuring that those who intend to commit crimes in the province are dealt with swiftly and decisively. I commend the officers involved in this operation for their bravery and professionalism. We will continue to work tirelessly to prevent and combat crime in Gauteng,” said Kekana.

Police have opened cases of attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearms, and other related offences.