14/08/2026
LAPUA INTERVENTION UNIT SUCCESS REPORT
12 August 2026 | Armed Business Robbery and ATM Removal
The Lapua Intervention Unit responded to an active armed business robbery at a BP service station on Lavender Road, Pretoria, after assistance was requested while SAPS members on scene were reportedly engaged by armed suspects.
While responding, members identified a vehicle believed to be linked to the incident. A high-speed pursuit followed along the R566 towards Rosslyn. During the pursuit, shots were allegedly fired from the suspect vehicle. The vehicle subsequently crashed, resulting in the detention of one suspect, while three others fled the scene.
Information obtained during the operation led members to a suspected safe house. A coordinated response was immediately initiated. On arrival, members reportedly came under heavy gunfire from several armed individuals using rifles and handguns.
The property was secured and three additional suspects were detained.
A search of the premises resulted in the recovery of property and evidence believed to be connected to the robbery, including an ATM safe, a drop safe, an R5 rifle, ammunition and additional items of evidential value.
A total of four suspects were detained during the operation.
PROPERTY AND EVIDENCE RECOVERED:
* White Volkswagen Polo – believed to have been used during the commission of the crime
* White Suzuki Ertiga – believed to have been used during the commission of the crime
* White Ford Ranger – sought in connection with CAS 757/07/2026, Thembisa
* ATM safe
* Drop safe
* R5 rifle
* Ammunition and additional magazine
* Gloves, balaclavas and clothing
* Undisclosed amount of cash
* False registration plates
All relevant role players attended the scene. The vehicles, recovered property and evidence were processed by the appropriate authorities and transferred to the relevant VCIU and SAP13 facilities.
Most importantly, no injuries were reported among the responding members and all personnel were accounted for following the operation.
Further investigation is underway to determine whether the suspects and recovered items can be linked to additional criminal cases.
Lapua Intervention Unit remains committed to professional, coordinated and intelligence-led operational support in the fight against serious and violent crime.
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