17 arrested after shootout with police in Orange Farms

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng has arrested 17 suspects during an intelligence-driven operation targeting an alleged syndicate linked to planned car and truck hijackings in Orange Farms, south of Johannesburg.

Gauteng Provincial Crime Intelligence and the Gauteng Highway Patrol provided information about a truck allegedly being targeted for hijacking along the N1, prompting police to launch the operation on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.

Shootout breaks out during operation

Acting on the intelligence, police moved to a plot in the Rietfontein area where the suspects were allegedly camping while preparing for the planned hijacking.

When officers approached the group, the suspects allegedly opened fire, resulting in a shootout with police.

The shootout wounded four suspects, and police transported them to hospital for medical treatment.

Police are guarding them while they remain under observation.

Police recover weapons and hijacking equipment

During the operation, police recovered an AK-47 rifle, four pistols, five vehicles and a signal-jamming device.

Police also seized traffic police uniforms, reflector jackets, balaclavas, gloves and a cutting grinder machine. Believed to be linked to criminal activities.

Police have opened cases of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of traffic uniforms and possession of a signal-jamming device.

SAPS said investigators may add further charges as the investigation continues.

Police will take the suspects before the Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court soon.

Police praise intelligence-led policing

Sedibeng District Commissioner Major General Nkhensani Mukwevho praised the officers involved in the operation.

She said proactive, intelligence-led policing remains key to disrupting organised crime and protecting communities and motorists.