Four alleged armed robbers killed in police shootout in Alberton

JOHANNESBURG - A deadly shootout between alleged armed robbers and police in Alberton, south of Johannesburg, has left four suspects dead.

Gauteng police said officers intercepted the suspects on the R59 after receiving intelligence that the group had intended to hit local stores.

The attempted heist quickly escalated into a violent confrontation, ultimately leaving all four suspects dead.

Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni, who was present at the scene, said the officers were forced into action to prevent a threat.

“It was a crime intelligence-led operation where they systematically assembled a team. Ultimately, they attempted to stop them. During the attempt to stop them, the suspects started firing at the officers, and police retaliated.”

Police said the swift intervention showcased their heightened readiness against violent crime in the province, where armed robberies have been a growing concern.

Further investigations are underway to determine if the suspects are connected to other recent criminal activities in the area.