Robber dies in gun battle with cops

2012-05-12 11:02

Johannesburg - A man was shot and killed and another two injured during a shoot-out with police in Brakpan on Saturday morning, Ekurhuleni metro police said.

Inspector Kobeli Mokheseng said officers were patrolling the area with police members when they tried to stop a white Mazda Midge sedan on the R554 road towards Kwa-Thema that was swerving and speeding.

"The suspicious sedan with four male occupants between the ages of 36 and 41 ignored blue lights and sirens blaring before they opened fire on police vehicles chasing them."

Mokheseng said the officers managed to stop the vehicle and search it.

"Police recovered two 9mm pistols with the serial numbers filled off and eight live rounds."

The vehicle was thoroughly searched and in the boot compartment officers found liquor with an estimated value of R6 000.

The two remaining men were in a serious but stable condition in hospital.

"Preliminary investigation reveals that, earlier at 01:10 in Groeneweider (in Boksburg) ... an entertainment place was robbed."

Mokheseng said two male staff members who were about to close the pool club when they were held-up at gunpoint, assaulted and tied-up. Liqour and money was stolen.

"The white Mazda Midge sedan with four occupants/robbers, that fit the description of a getaway vehicle, was positively identified by victims."

The two men were charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, attempted murder, failing to stop as instructed by an officer in uniform and possession of stolen goods.

Police were also investigating a case of armed robbery and of assault with an intention to do harm.

They would appear in court soon, Mokheseng said.

- SAPA