Copper suspected to be stolen was successfully intercepted by Guardmax Tactical Units on Sunday night, January 18. Goods valued at about R100 000 were also recovered.

According to Guardmax Protection Services director Jan Venter, their officers on patrol spotted a veld fire near Muldersdrift at about 23:40. Suspecting it was human-made, the team approached the area on foot. They found a white panel van parked near two partially derelict buildings, with copper cables burning at the site.

Inside the buildings, officers encountered a man appearing intoxicated and unable to respond clearly to questions. Guardmax deemed the situation suspicious and detained the individual for further investigation.

During an attempt to investigate the fire outside, a shootout erupted, with bullets fired from multiple directions. The exchange lasted roughly 20 minutes until additional Guardmax units arrived, prompting the gunfire to subside.

Following the incident, officers recovered large amounts of copper cable from the van, the buildings, and the fire site. SAPS was called in to assist, including the West Rand Flying Squad, police’s K9 units, and other security companies. A helicopter provided aerial support to track fleeing suspects, who remain at large while investigations continue.

Venter confirmed that the officers acted professionally and handed the scene over to the police with only minor injuries. He also thanked all role players who assisted after the shootout and highlighted the importance of teamwork in keeping the community safe.