Two suspects, aged 37 and 40, were arrested following an armed robbery that escalated into a shootout with South African Police Service (SAPS) members in Leslie on Tuesday evening, 17 June 2025. A 38-year-old police constable was injured in the crossfire during the confrontation.
Robbery Turns into High-Stakes Shootout
According to reports, Leslie police officers were on routine patrol when they encountered a robbery in progress. The suspects, allegedly posing as law enforcement, opened fire on the officers, prompting an immediate exchange of gunfire. The constable sustained a gunshot wound to the hip and was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Suspects Pose as Police in Brazen Heist Attempt
Preliminary investigations reveal that approximately seven armed men, dressed in police reflector vests, entered a liquor outlet in Leslie. They reportedly identified themselves as police officials conducting an investigation into counterfeit liquor. After questioning the owner for nearly an hour, the suspects allegedly attempted an armed robbery.
At that moment, Visible Policing (Vispol) members from Leslie arrived on the scene, leading to a violent confrontation. While two suspects were apprehended, the remaining five fled, abandoning two vehicles—a white BMW 3 Series with a false registration and a white Ford Focus, which was reported stolen in Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng, in March 2025. Both vehicles were seized for further investigation.
Manhunt Leads to Arrest of Hiding Suspects
Unconvinced that all suspects had escaped, police conducted an intensive search of the area. The operation led to the discovery of the two arrested suspects hiding in an enclosed storeroom. They have since been charged with attempted murder, armed robbery, and possession of suspected stolen vehicles.
Forensic experts are currently processing the crime scene as part of the ongoing investigation. Authorities have indicated that further developments may arise as the probe continues, with updates to be provided to the public as new information emerges.
The two suspects are scheduled to appear in the Leslie Periodical Court on Friday, 20 June 2025.
