Police in Gauteng have released further information on the N1 shooting where a motorist shot and killed three alleged hijackers who pounced on him at the Diepkloof interchange in Soweto.
Three suspected hijackers were declared dead on Tuesday and their bodies were covered in foil, next to the white Toyota Hilux double cab bakkie.
The Star newspaper reported that in a dramatic turn of events at the Diepkloof Interchange, the armed civilian defended himself against a group of suspected hijackers, leading to the deadly confrontation.
In an update, Gauteng provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said the motorist was driving when he was accosted by people in two vehicles, purporting to be police officers.
“It is alleged that a man was driving on the highway when occupants on two different vehicles signalled him to stop and showed him what looked like a police appointment certificate,” said Nevhuhulwi.
“When he stopped, three males from the red Kia Rio vehicle approached and told him there is something wrong under his car. When he bent to check, he was pointed with a knife and instructed not to move as they wanted his car and not him.”
The motorist who had a firearm on his waist immediately responded and started shooting.
“The suspects from another vehicle, a blue Ford Focus, also shot back while driving off. Three suspects were declared dead on the scene,” said Nevhuhulwi.
She said police in Gauteng are investigating a case of murder, attempted murder and attempted hijacking.
“Anyone who may know the whereabouts of the other suspects or any information that can assist with police investigation is requested to contact the Crime Stop line at 08600 10111,” said Nevhuhulwi.
Motorists in Gauteng have been urged to exercise vigilance when driving and to report any suspicious activities.
In April, IOL reported that three alleged criminals were shot dead during an exchange of gunfire with police officers in Gauteng.
At the time, Brigadier Brenda Muridili said the three were part of the infamous criminal gangs terrorising motorists on the N3 between Villiers and Heidelberg.
IOL