Gunfight Erupts As Heavily Armed Suspects Target Johannesburg Substation

Gunshots erupt as heavily armed suspects attempting to steal cables from the Fordsburg Substation in Johannesburg engaged in a shootout with police.

This gun battle broke in the early hours of Monday after security personnel caught the suspects using a hacksaw to cut cables at the substation. City Power has strongly condemned what it described as “the brazen and cowardly actions of criminals targeting critical infrastructure.”

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Second Suspect Involved In Carjacking On Mahlangu Drive Gave Up The Ghost

City Power spokesperson Isaac Mangena said the ordeal began late Sunday when security teams detected suspicious movement in the substation’s underground tunnels.

“Upon investigation, we discovered suspects using a hacksaw, with flashlights glimmering in the dark passages. A tactical team was dispatched, but due to the risk of ambush, security personnel had to call for police backup. Soon after, gunshots were heard, confirming the suspects were armed and dangerous,” Mangena said.

According to Mangena, police were alerted but arrived late due to resource constraints.

“Around midnight, security personnel leaving the substation encountered SAPS officers on the Main Reef Bridge. A fierce gunfight broke out when police engaged a large group of suspects hiding behind an abandoned building.

“As the firefight escalated, police had to retreat to resupply ammunition. By the time they returned at 01:30, the suspects had fled. No injuries or arrests have been reported,” he said.

Mangena warned that the Fordsburg shootout was part of a growing trend of violent attacks on infrastructure.

Similarly, a manhunt has been launched for 11 armed suspects linked to recent incidents at the Midrand and Alexandra Service Delivery Centres (SDCs) on 7 and 9 February.

“In Midrand, eight gunmen attempted to steal cables from the Klipfontein Substation, opening fire when confronted by security officers before escaping into the bush.

“Meanwhile, three armed men stormed the Alexandra Security and Dispatch Centre on 7 February, holding two female security officers at gunpoint before stealing personal belongings. One officer suffered a severe asthma attack and required medical treatment,” Mangena said.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Five Missing After Being Swept Away By Floodwaters In KZN

Mangena confirmed that Sandringham police are investigating the Alexandra attack as an armed robbery and that City Power is working closely with law enforcement to track down the suspects.

“City Power remains steadfast in its commitment to bringing these criminals to justice. The manhunt continues,” he added.

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram