A deadly shootout between police and suspected criminals in Lenasia early this morning resulted in the deaths of two armed suspects. The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that no officers were harmed during the exchange of fire.
Police intercept wanted suspects in Lenasia
According to SAPS, the operation was a Crime Intelligence-led initiative conducted alongside multiple law enforcement units. The suspects, who were under investigation for a series of ATM bombings and other serious offences across Gauteng and neighbouring provinces, were tracked down to a location in Lenasia.
Upon confrontation, the suspects reportedly opened fire on police, prompting officers to return fire.
Two suspects were fatally wounded during the exchange, while others sustained injuries. Authorities have not yet confirmed the total number of suspects involved or whether any arrests were made.
Deputy National Commissioner for Crime Detection, Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya, and other senior SAPS officials were present at the scene and are expected to provide additional details once forensic and investigative teams conclude their work.
The crime scene remains active as evidence is being collected.
What happens next?
In cases where police are involved in fatal shootings, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is responsible for reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The watchdog typically examines whether the use of force was justified and follows up on procedural compliance.
IPID investigations generally involve collecting ballistics evidence, obtaining statements from officers and witnesses, and reviewing any available surveillance footage.
If any misconduct is suspected, further legal action may be taken against those involved.
At this stage, SAPS has indicated that preliminary evidence suggests the officers acted in self-defence. However, a full investigation will be conducted to verify the events leading up to the shootout.
More information is expected once law enforcement officials complete their assessment of the crime scene.
