Brits Shootout: Police Arrest Armed Robbery Suspect After Gun Battle in Oukasie
A routine robbery investigation in Brits turned into a tense gun battle on Wednesday when police exchanged fire with a 26 year old suspect accused of stealing his grandfather’s licensed firearm and firing shots at him.
The dramatic confrontation unfolded in Oukasie, North West, as police teams raced to track down the suspect following reports of an armed robbery involving a 68 year old man.
According to preliminary information from police, the elderly victim alleged that his grandson forced him to the ground at his home in Masenkeng, Oukasie, before taking his licensed firearm.
The suspect allegedly fired two shots at the victim during the incident but missed before fleeing from the scene with the firearm.
Police immediately launched a search operation, later joined by members of the Brits Tactical Response Team, Crime Prevention Unit and other South African Police Service units.
The search intensified as officers spotted the suspect, who allegedly attempted to escape by running towards nearby mountains before moving through residential areas.
The pursuit took a dangerous turn near a primary school when police members were allegedly met with gunfire from the suspect.
A further exchange of shots followed after the suspect entered a residential property, resulting in injuries to both a police officer and a civilian.
A 41 year old police sergeant was shot in the right leg during the confrontation and was rushed to a medical facility, where he remains under treatment.
A 30 year old female bystander was also injured in the right leg during the exchange of gunfire. She was taken to hospital for medical attention and was later discharged.
The suspect sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the confrontation. He was arrested and transported to hospital under police guard, where he is receiving treatment.
Police recovered the stolen firearm and ammunition, which have since been seized for forensic examination.
Several criminal cases are being investigated, including robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and discharging a firearm in a municipal area. Police said additional charges may be added as the investigation continues.
Acting North West Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo praised the police officers involved for their swift response to what he described as a dangerous and volatile situation.
Naidoo said the officers showed courage and professionalism while confronting an armed suspect, adding that their actions helped prevent further harm to members of the community.
He also wished the injured police officer and civilian a speedy recovery.
The suspect is expected to face further legal proceedings once investigations are concluded.
