Armed motorist killed during dramatic shoot-out
A MOTORIST was fatally shot during a high-speed chase after allegedly failing to stop at a roadblock near Niekerkshoop on January 7.
According to the police, the suspect was armed and driving a silver Volkswagen Polo, which was believed to have been stolen.
A video that went viral on Facebook showed a bullet-riddled vehicle, which had a Northern Cape registration plate, with its back windscreen shattered.
Northern Cape SAPS spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers confirmed that the incident occurred on Tuesday at around 2.40pm.
“Police from Griekwastad responded to information regarding a vehicle that had allegedly been hijacked in Kimberley and was en route to Griekwastad,” she said.
Ehlers explained that a roadblock was set up to intercept the vehicle.
“It is believed that the suspect sped through the roadblock and pointed a firearm at police officers. A high-speed chase ensued, during which police fired warning shots,” she said.
Ehlers added that the suspect failed to stop.
“On the R386 gravel road towards Niekerkshoop, the suspect allegedly pointed his firearm at the police, who responded accordingly. The suspect succumbed to his injuries after the police fired shots at the vehicle.”
She said no police officers were injured during the incident.
Ehlers also confirmed that the matter has been referred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for investigation.
