A suspected hijacker was shot and killed during an attempted robbery involving a courier vehicle in Block B, Mabopane, north of Pretoria, on Wednesday morning.
According to police information from Mabopane SAPS, the incident occurred on 5 March 2026 at approximately 11:40 next to house number 2768 in Block B.
Police reported that an officer on duty received a complaint of a shooting in the area and immediately proceeded to the scene to investigate.
Upon arrival, the officer found a red-and-white courier van parked at the scene. The driver of the vehicle, who is believed to be a witness, was present along with the escort officer, who was identified as the suspect in the shooting.
An unknown African male was discovered lying on the pavement next to the vehicle. He was found on his back with visible gunshot wounds. Initial observations indicated injuries to the chin and throat, and he was bleeding from the mouth. A black and silver pistol was found next to the deceased.
Preliminary information gathered at the scene suggests that the deceased allegedly attempted to hijack the courier van. During the incident, the escort officer reportedly discharged his firearm in response to the threat.
It is further alleged that the deceased was not alone, as another suspect was reportedly involved. The second suspect allegedly fled the scene with the vehicle keys after hearing the gunshots.
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) were called to the scene. EMS personnel examined the man and declared him dead at the scene. During further examination, an additional gunshot wound to the chest was identified.
Police also recovered three spent cartridges inside the courier van. The firearm found next to the deceased was collected and sealed in a forensic evidence bag. The escort officer’s firearm, along with eleven live rounds of ammunition, was also seized for forensic investigation.
The body of the deceased was later removed by Forensic Pathology Services for further examination and identification.
Police have opened a murder case for investigation, and further inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the shooting are ongoing. Authorities are also searching for the second suspect who fled the scene.
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