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Three suspects linked to the notorious blue light gang met their demise on Sunday on the N3 freeway.
The incident unfolded as a multidisciplinary team of law enforcement officials engaged the suspects in a deadly confrontation.
According to a statement released by the SA Police Service (SAPS) on Monday, the operation was initiated following intelligence reports pinpointing the gang's activities along the N3 stretch between Villiers and Heidelberg.
The gang was known for conducting blue-light robberies, using a white Toyota Hilux to instil fear and carry out their criminal activities.
The operation involved various law enforcement units, including SAPS National Head Office Counter Intelligence, Secunda Crime Intelligence, Gauteng Tactical Response Team, Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit, DPC Tracking Team, Johannesburg K9, CAP Specialised Operations, Tracker Connect, ICB Insurance Crime Bureau, MZ Werke Security, and Telesure Insurance Investigation.
It led to the identification of the suspects' vehicle, which was equipped with illegally installed blue lights.
Upon spotting the police presence, the suspects attempted to evade capture, sparking a high-speed chase towards Zonkizizwe, Ekurhuleni.
The situation escalated when the suspects opened fire on the pursuing law enforcement team, prompting a retaliatory response that resulted in the fatal shooting of three suspects. One member of the gang managed to escape on foot.
Two unlicensed firearms, ammunition, the blue lights used for criminal impersonation and the suspects' vehicle were discovered in the aftermath of the operation.
The crime scene was examined for additional evidence, and the vehicle was impounded for further forensic analysis by the Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit.
This incident sheds light on the persistent threat posed by blue-light gangs in Gauteng, with recent arrests highlighting the extent of their criminal activities.
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Just last week, eight suspects, including two police officers, faced charges related to kidnapping and extortion in the Viljoenskroon Magistrate's Court in the Free State.
These suspects were accused of masquerading as law enforcement officers during a blue light gang attack, where they coerced victims into financial transactions under duress.
In response to these alarming trends, motorists are advised to adhere to the "blue light protocol" developed in part by the Road Traffic Management Corporation.
This protocol includes slowing down, activating hazard lights, signalling the blue-light vehicle to follow and driving cautiously to the nearest police station or a public space with CCTV coverage if suspicious of a stop.
Additionally, motorists are urged to verify the authenticity of police stops by calling 10111 and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary to ensure their safety.
