Riverlea resident killed in cop, zama zama shootout
A man has been killed, allegedly after being caught in the crossfire during a gun battle between police and suspects.
A case of murder has been registered after a body with a gunshot wound was discovered at Zamimpilo Informal Settlement, south of Johannesburg, in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Gauteng police spokesperson, Mavela Masondo, says the shooting occurred on Tuesday evening while officers were conducting a routine check.
“They spotted a Toyota bakkie with three occupants that looked suspicious. The police tried to stop the vehicle, but the driver ignored them and sped off. A chance ensued, and the suspects turned into Zamimpilo Informal Settlement. As the police were searching for the suspects, they were shot at by the people who were in the Informal Settlement, and they shot back.”
He says no injuries were reported immediately after the shooting.
The area has been plagued by illegal mining and related crimes.
In 2023, then-police minister Bheki Cele held an imbizo to address the community’s concerns after residents protested.
They took to the streets following the discovery of five bodies believed to be those of illegal miners involved in a turf war.
During the community engagement, residents called on authorities to demolish the informal settlement.
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