8 dead as cops, robbers face off in Rosettenville shootout
Eight people were shot and killed in Rosettenville, south of
Johannesburg, on Monday afternoon during a gun battle between police and a gang
of suspects.
The eight men were among a group of 25 believed to have been on their way to carry out a cash-in-transit heist.
It's understood police stepped in near the South Rand Hospital.
The operation turned deadly when law enforcement arrived - triggering a gun fight between the two groups.
The criminals are believed to have fired the first shot at a helicopter overhead.
Four officials were also caught in the crossfire, including personnel in the helicopter.
A Johannesburg metro police officer is among the wounded in hospital.
Netcare 911 spokesperson Shawn Herbst confirmed the pair was airlifted to nearby healthcare facilities.
Police Minister Bheki Cele rushed to the scene where he addressed the rattled community and media.
"The surprising one was the one that shot the helicopter and injured the pilot and the pilot's assistant. So, we are working with heartless people that are prepared to kill," Cele said.
Eight others were arrested while the remaining suspects are now on the loose.
"Surprisingly, without fail except one who comes from Botswana, they all come from Zimbabwe and KZN.
"They are well-armed," he added
Explosives were also found on the scene.
Police investigations are underway.
