The N12 Shootout left three robbery suspects fatally wounded following a high-speed police chase west of Johannesburg. The incident caused major traffic disruptions and highlighted ongoing efforts by law enforcement to curb violent crime on Gauteng’s major routes.
Police confirmed the suspects had just robbed a courier vehicle in Thokoza before fleeing onto the N12. The confrontation ended in a shootout between police and the suspects near the Diepkloof interchange.
What Happened During the N12 Shootout
The Three Robbery Suspects Fatally Wounded incident unfolded on the N12 westbound, between Xavier Street and the Soweto off-ramp.
According to SAPS, officers received operational intelligence about an armed courier robbery in Thokoza. Police units tracked a silver Toyota Corolla linked to the crime.
When officers attempted to stop the vehicle near Kliprivier Road, the suspects accelerated and fled.
This triggered:
- A high-speed chase on the N12
- An exchange of gunfire between suspects and police
- A complete shutdown of all westbound lanes for scene control
The suspect vehicle eventually came to a standstill after the shootout.
SAPS Confirms Three Dead, One Injured
Gauteng SAPS spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed the outcome of the N12 Shootout.
Three suspects sustained fatal gunshot wounds and were declared dead on the scene by emergency medical personnel. A fourth suspect survived and was taken to hospital under police guard.
Police recovered:
- Two unlicensed firearms
- Suspected stolen courier stock
- A vehicle believed to have been used in the robbery
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate has been notified, in line with standard procedure following police-involved shootings.
Major Traffic Disruptions on the N12
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department warned motorists of severe delays following the shooting.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said all lanes were closed to allow investigators and forensic teams to secure the scene.
Motorists were advised to:
- Avoid the N12 westbound towards Diepkloof
- Use Xavier Street as an alternative exit
- Divert via the M1 North or South
- Consider the Golden Highway as a bypass
Traffic congestion stretched for several kilometres as commuters tried to reroute during peak travel hours.
Law Enforcement Collaboration Praised
Gauteng Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni commended the coordinated response that led to the arrest and neutralisation of the suspects.
The operation involved:
- SAPS National Counter Intelligence
- Gauteng Tactical Response Team
- Gauteng Traffic Police Air Wing
- Private security partners
According to SAPS crime statistics, Gauteng recorded more than 3,500 reported robberies involving firearms in recent quarters, with courier-related robberies remaining a key focus area for police operations.
Authorities stressed that joint intelligence-led operations remain central to reducing violent crime on major transport routes.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Reminder
Police investigations into the N12 Shootout continue. Forensic teams are analysing ballistic evidence, while detectives trace the origins of the recovered firearms and stolen goods.
SAPS urged the public to:
- Avoid interfering with police operations
- Report suspicious activity immediately
- Remain cautious when travelling on high-risk routes
Officials reiterated that criminals who resist arrest and endanger public lives will face decisive action.
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