Four suspected extortionists have been apprehended in Bothasig, after a fatal shootout in the area on Wednesday.

The incident occurred after the SAPS’ Provincial Operational Command Centre’s Combat Team reacted to information that seven individuals in a minibus taxi were extorting money from shop owners in Du Noon.

As suspects fled the area, a pursuit ensued along Bosmansdam Road. Police say the suspects opened fire on police vehicles, to which police retaliated, bringing the taxi to a halt at the intersection of Bosmansdam and Wylands Roads.

The incident, which occurred at approximately 14:00, resulted in the deaths of three suspects, while four others sustained gunshot wounds.

The police confiscated the assault rifle, a 9mm pistol, an undisclosed amount of cash, and the minibus taxi.

The four injured suspects are currently receiving medical treatment under police guard, and detectives are preparing charges for their upcoming court appearances.

The identities of the suspects are yet to be confirmed.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is investigating the deaths and injuries, and a death inquest has been opened.

Just last week, Western Cape Provincial Police Commissioner, Thembisile Patekile, reiterated the importance of reporting extortion. Patakile noted the belief that not all cases of extortion are being reported to the police.

Patekile says the newly established Extortion Task Team, comprising experienced detectives and intelligence operatives, has been tasked with addressing these crimes and ensuring the safety of all communities.

READ MORE: Police Commissioner urges communities to report extortion

“Different communities and people from different spheres of life and occupation, including government service providers, are falling prey to crimes associated with extortion. These crimes consist of other crime such as murder, robbery, intimidation, kidnapping and other serious crime.”