Gauteng police dismiss claims that suspects arrested for M1 highway robberies released
This after an audio recording circulated on social media, alleging the suspects were released.
Motorists will have to dig deeper as toll fee increases are on the cards. Picture: Pexels
JOHANNESBURG - Gauteng police have dismissed reports that eight suspects arrested in connection with the robberies that took place on the M1 highway are back on the streets.
This after an audio recording circulated on social media, alleging the suspects were released.
The group was nabbed late on Tuesday after motorists were robbed at gunpoint during gridlocked morning traffic at the Crown Interchange earlier that day.
READ: Victims of M1 roadside robberies urged to open cases with police
Acting police commissioner Tommy Mthombeni said the group, believed to be illegal miners, have not yet been linked to the crime but investigations continue.
"One can confirm that one case is open with the SAPS [South African Police Service] Johannesburg Central, which is under investigation.”
Mthombeni also clarified the matter of the guns.
"It's not true. Our members (SAPS and JMPD) were deployed in civilian clothing carrying rifles, not AK47s."