Police Intercept Armed Gang Targeting Churches, One Suspect Fatally Shot
South African police intercepted an armed gang targeting places of worship on March 24, 2025, in Westdene, Sophiatown.
The operation ended in a shootout, leaving one suspect dead and five others arrested.
Two of the suspects are hospitalized under police guard following injuries sustained during the exchange of gunfire.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) reported that the gang was involved in several robberies and break-ins at churches, including the theft of a music system worth over R2 million from a church in Florida.
South Africa News Today confirmed that law enforcement agencies, acting on intelligence, worked together to disrupt the gang’s plans to rob another church.
Law enforcement intercepted the suspects driving a Toyota Quantum in Sophiatown. A high-speed chase ensued when the gang attempted to flee, leading to a shootout.
Their vehicle crashed into a fence, allowing officers to arrest five suspects and recover stolen items, including unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
SAPS confirmed that the firearms will undergo ballistic tests to determine their link to other crimes.
The suspects remain in custody and police are continuing their investigations into the gang’s activities.
