CrimeNews

Centurion hero survives shootout — bullet stopped by vest during R55 shoutout

A brave Centurion security officer is lucky to be alive after a bullet fired at him during a robbery chase was stopped by his vest.

What could have ended in tragedy turned into a miracle when a Centurion security officer survived a shootout with robbers on the R55 — thanks to his bulletproof vest that stopped a bullet fired directly at him.

Monitor Net’s JP Le Roux responded to a robbery in progress in the Sunderland Ridge area and encountered the suspects as they attempted to flee the scene.

According to the General Manager, Paul Gerber, a shootout occurred, and with the assistance of fellow security service providers, the vehicle was brought to a stop, and the suspects were arrested.

He said the vehicles used in the crime, stolen goods, as well as firearms, were seized by members of the SA Police Service.

“On behalf of the entire Monitor Net team, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who reached out following the recent shooting incident in which one of our colleagues, JP le Roux was injured.”

Gerber said JP was transferred to the Unitas trauma unit, and it was found that he sustained minor injuries.

The bullet that was fired and hit JP was found inside his bulletproof vest and was stuck inside the ballistic plate.

Centurion hero survives shootout — bullet stopped by vest during R55 shoutout

 

The outpouring of concern, prayers, and well-wishes has been overwhelming, once again showcasing the incredible unity and support within the Centurion community.

Centurion hero survives shootout — bullet stopped by vest during R55 shoutout
JP Le Roux Photo: Supplied

Monitor Net expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who reached out — and gave thanks to God for protecting JP and all security service providers who risk their lives daily to keep others safe.

Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said eight suspects were arrested on the scene.

“Two firearms, the truck and the vehicle were also seized for further investigations.”

Also read: Eight suspected robbers arrested after shootout in Centurion

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Corné van Zyl

Corné van Zyl is a seasoned journalist and currently a senior reporter at Rekord, with a wealth of experience across various media platforms. She began her career after studying journalism at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and first honed her skills at Media24. Corné’s career took her to Beeld, Sondag newspaper, and the South African Press Association (SAPA), where she built a strong foundation in news reporting. In her free time, Corné enjoys spending time with her family outdoors, embracing life and creating lasting memories with her loved ones.
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