In a high-stakes turn of events at the Diepkloof Interchange on Tuesday morning, a civilian armed with a firearm defended himself against a group of suspected hijackers, resulting in a deadly encounter that has left residents in shock.
Witnesses recount a harrowing scene where six men, reportedly posing as law enforcement officers, attempted to ambush a motorist traveling along N1 North in Johannesburg.
The suspects allegedly surrounded the driver, signaling for him to pull over as if conducting a routine police check. Upon exiting his vehicle, the driver—identified as a trained security instructor—was threatened by three assailants armed with a knife.
Without hesitation, the motorist turned the tables, drawing his weapon and firing, ultimately killing three of the suspects.
The attempted hijacking unfolded near the Diepkloof Hostel, an area notorious for criminal activity, leaving onlookers stunned as the assailants’ alleged accomplices fled the scene in a blue Ford Focus amid the chaos.
Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed details of the incident, stating that the suspects made it clear they were after the vehicle rather than the driver’s life, but the armed civilian reacted quickly to protect himself.
An investigation has since been launched into charges of murder, attempted murder, and attempted hijacking.
With crime on the rise, authorities are urging drivers to remain cautious and report any suspicious activity, highlighting the importance of vigilance on the roads.
