What started as just another Thursday morning on Johannesburg’s busy highways ended in a dramatic and deadly shoot-out that left five suspects dead and police commended for swift action.
High-Speed Chase Sparks Gun Battle
Tensions exploded near the M1/M2 highway split when police tried to intercept a group believed to be behind a planned cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery.
As soon as officers approached, the suspects sped off—leading to a high-speed pursuit that quickly turned violent.
According to Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the police had been working on solid intelligence about a potential CIT attack set to take place in Johannesburg.
The suspects, unwilling to surrender, opened fire on the police, triggering a gunfight during the chase.
Crash Ends Chase as All Five Suspects Killed
The dramatic pursuit came to a crashing halt when the suspects’ vehicle ploughed into a palisade fence.
What followed was a swift and decisive response—police shot all five suspects, who were declared dead at the scene.
Vehicle Linked to Earlier Violent Heist
Investigators quickly began piecing things together.
It turns out the car used in the failed CIT operation had also been involved in a previous robbery and murder in Kingsley, KwaZulu-Natal, just 10 days earlier on 14 July 2025.
Police also discovered a stash of weapons inside the vehicle, including an AK-47, a pistol, and explosives—clear signs that this group was heavily armed and dangerous.
Law Enforcement Collaboration Praised
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni didn’t hold back in commending the various law enforcement agencies involved.
He highlighted the importance of the coordinated effort, which included the National Counter-Intelligence Unit, Tactical Response Teams from both Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, the Hawks, Gauteng Traffic officials, and even private security services.
“These joint operations are producing results,” Mthombeni stated.
“They send a strong warning to criminals: police will not rest, and we will act swiftly and decisively.”
Public Encouraged to Speak Up
As investigations continue, police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or criminal activity.
Anyone with information can call the Crime Stop Hotline at 08600 10111 or leave an anonymous tip via the MySAPS app.