IPID investigates deadly police shootout with alleged extortionists

JOHANNESBURG - Western Cape police say a tip-off led to a fatal shoot out which left three suspected extortionists dead in Bothasig on Wednesday.

Police said four other suspected extortionists who sustained gunshot wounds during the shootout were arrested.

Police spokesperson Andre Traut said the South African Police Service (SAPS) combat team reacted to information that seven occupants of a minibus taxi were extorting money from shop owners in Du Noon.

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Traut said the suspects were spotted fleeing Du Noon and opened fire at police with an assault rifle during a high-speed chase.

"Police retaliated and managed to bring the vehicle to a halt on the corners of Bosmansdam and Wylands roads. The assault rifle, a 9mm pistol, an undisclosed amount of cash, as well as the minibus taxi were confiscated."

Traut said detectives were pursuing leads to prepare a court case while the suspects are being treated in hospital.

The shootout is being investigated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) and a death inquest is now underway.