Pretoria - The South African Police Service (SAPS) says it will thoroughly investigate the fatal shooting that occurred near the O R Tambo International Airport on the East Rand on Monday.
One man was killed and a car, Hyundai H1, was hijacked in the vicinity of the OR Tambo International Airport around 16:30pm, SAPS spokesperson Major General Sally de Beer said.
De Beer said preliminary reports indicate that the driver of the vehicle was transporting a group of six businesspeople from Johannesburg to the airport and en route, at least one vehicle attempted to flag them down.
“Reportedly, as he took the off-ramp from the highway to the airport, the vehicle was blocked by two other vehicles, one being a black VW Golf, and the driver was shot and fatally wounded. The suspects drove off in the Hyndai with the passengers.”
The passengers were abandoned by the suspects in Rhodesfield, Kempton Park, after being robbed of some of their belongings, including cellular phones. None of the passengers were injured.
Police say they are processing the crime scene and interviewing victims and witnesses.
Reacting to the incident, Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khomotso Phahlane, expressed concern about the arrogance displayed by the perpetrators.
He said police will ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted, leading to the arrest and prosecution of those involved.
“The SAPS will thoroughly investigate this heinous and violent crime committed close to a national key point, the O R Tambo International Airport.”
However, General Phahlane did not want to speculate on the motive for the crime.
“Once we have further facts at our disposal gathered from the crime scene, victims, witnesses and other relevant evidence, we will be in a position to make further details available,” said General Phahlane.
He urged anyone with information that may assist SAPS in the investigation into this crime may contact Crime Stop on 0860010111 or SMS Crime Line on 32211, anonymously if needs be. - SAnews.gov.za
