Cape Town - Law Enforcement Advancement Plan (Leap) members came under attack on Monday morning in Khayelitsha when their vehicle was struck by bullets, narrowly missing the driver and the officer who were chasing suspects in a Golden Arrow Bus robbery.
It's been reported that after crossing over Spine Road into Ilitha Park, one of the perpetrators jumped out of the vehicle and began shooting directly at the officers.
Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi said the unknown suspects fled the scene.
“According to reports, the driver of a Golden Arrow Bus was driving in Site B in Khayelitsha on Monday, August 22 at around 3.47 pm. Two unknown armed males approached and threatened the driver. When the driver tried to speed away, the suspects fired gunshots at the moving vehicle, causing damage to the windscreen of the vehicle. The motive for the attack is unknown. Khayelitsha police are investigating a case of attempted murder,” said Swartbooi.
Safety and Security Mayco member JP Smith said Leap investigators have been assigned to assist Ilitha Park detectives.
He said three suspects were indeed nabbed. Follow-up questions to SAPS regarding the arrests were expected in due course.
“All three suspects were placed under arrest at Ilitha Park SAPS, for a range of charges, including attempted murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and more. The bravery of these officers to pursue these perpetrators, even in the face of danger while being shot at, again demonstrates to the public the true calibre of our officers. It is not just the vast number of additional boots-on-the-ground that is making the difference, but it's the courage that fills these shoes that sets these brave members apart,” said Smith.
Anyone with information can anonymously contact Crime Stop at 086 0010 111 or SMS Crime Line at 32211.
Cape Times