In the early hours of Monday morning, 7 April, a dramatic shootout unfolded at the Engen garage located at the corner of Davel and Kerk Street. The incident occurred between 2:00 and 3:00 am when 8 - 10 armed suspects attempted to break into five ATMs on the premises.
The suspects, armed with high-powered firearms including R5 assault rifles, an AK-47, and 9mm pistols, tried to force open three of the ATMs inside the store using a pry bar. Quick-thinking garage staff activated the panic alarm system, prompting the suspects to flee before they could access the cash.
As the robbers attempted to make their escape, they were intercepted by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). A shootout ensued, escalating when two ACSU security vehicles arrived on the scene just one minute and forty seconds after being alerted.
The shootout between the robbers, SAPS, and ACSU officers lasted for approximately seven minutes. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the police or security personnel.
The swift response by ACSU was praised by the garage owner, who emotionally stated: “I get goosebumps thinking about it. If ACSU didn’t arrive when they did, my people would have been dead.”
ACSU, a leading private security firm in the region, is no stranger to high-stakes confrontations such as this. Known for their rapid response times and professionalism, the firm has frequently worked in coordination with SAPS in similar operations. Their presence on the ground has earned the trust of the community, who often rely on their added protection in times when state resources are stretched thin.
This incident comes at a time when Parliament is debating a controversial bill aimed at tightening regulations for private security companies.
The local Community Policing Forum (CPF) also arrived on the scene shortly after the shootout, assisting in managing the aftermath and supporting law enforcement efforts. This operation was a joint success between ACSU, SAPS, and the CPF, demonstrating effective collaboration between private security, public policing, and community structures.
The suspects ultimately fled the scene, leaving behind a failed robbery attempt. A police investigation is ongoing.