Midrand Facebook Marketplace Scam Turns Violent As 5 Suspects Shot In Police Shootout

A dramatic shootout unfolded in Midrand, Johannesburg, on Monday afternoon after police confronted suspects linked to a string of Facebook Marketplace scams. Authorities had been tracking the group following a recent armed robbery where a prospective buyer was shot and robbed after responding to a fake car sale.

Deputy Gauteng Police Commissioner Fred Kekana confirmed that the suspects attempted to lure another victim today using the same car as bait. However, the plan backfired when the supposed buyer turned out to be an undercover police officer.

“They were coming thinking they were going to rob this victim, not knowing that the vehicle they were approaching was the police. Only upon arrival did they start shooting at the police and officers had to defend themselves,” Kekana explained.

Midrand Shootout Leaves Five Suspects Injured, Two on the Run

During the confrontation, five of the seven suspects were shot and wounded. They received medical attention at the scene before being taken into police custody. Two suspects managed to escape, and police believe one of them was also injured in the exchange of gunfire.

Kekana said the shootout was part of ongoing efforts to clamp down on criminals exploiting online platforms to target unsuspecting buyers. “We have been zeroing in on similar incidents, which have become rife in the area in recent weeks,” he added.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: KwaZulu-Natal Woman Allegedly Gang-Raped By Fifteen Men In Waterloo

While police managed to foil the robbery, one officer sustained a gunshot wound to the leg. He was rushed to the hospital, where he is receiving treatment.

Authorities continue to search for the remaining suspects and have urged the public to remain cautious when engaging in online transactions.

---

For More, Follow SurgeZirc SA On  Facebook, X,  Instagram and Bluesky