Midrand – One suspect linked to an armed robbery at OR Tambo International Airport was fatally shot during a fierce confrontation with police in Rabie Ridge on Monday morning, authorities said.
In a joint operation involving the SAPS Counter Intelligence Investigation Head Office, SAPS Gauteng Tactical Response Team (TRT), SAPS Airwing (Pretoria), Gauteng Traffic Police Airwing, SAPS DPC Tracking Team, CAP Specialised Operations, Tracker Connect, and Gemini Global Defense, intelligence led officers to suspects wanted in connection with airport-linked armed robberies.
The multidisciplinary team spotted the suspects’ vehicle travelling at high speed in the Midrand area.
“An operational plan was executed and officers attempted to stop the vehicle,” police said.
This sparked a high-speed chase where shots were exchanged between the suspects and law enforcement.
Armed robber following victims from OR Tambo airport killed in a shootout with policehttps://t.co/nM3lnsYxE9#ArriveAlive #Crime @SAPoliceService @GTP_Traffstats pic.twitter.com/Kp6ATHaYbT
— Arrive Alive (@_ArriveAlive) December 22, 2025
The vehicle came to a standstill in Rabie Ridge, after which the suspects exited and “continued firing at the law enforcement team.”
One suspect was fatally wounded during the exchange, and unlicensed firearms were recovered at the scene.
Investigators revealed the same suspects had allegedly robbed a victim earlier that day.
“The victim had arrived at OR Tambo International Airport and was followed to a hotel, where the robbery occurred,” police reported.
The search continues for the remaining two suspects. No further details on the victim’s condition or the extent of the robbery were immediately available.
SAPS has urged anyone with information to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
