Police are questioning three robbers after a shopping centre robbery and shootout in which a hijacked motorist was killed.

About 20 armed men held up six shops at the VC Spar complex in the Brakpan area and fled.

Police caught up with them on the N17 highway near the Gosforth Toll Plaza.

A shootout ensued and a robber was wounded.

He and two others are behind bars.

It is hoped the three suspects in custody will shed light on their criminal activities and that they will lead them to their accomplices who got away.

It is suspected the gang is also behind a robbery in Springs several weeks ago in which a customer was wounded.

Currently security guards are patrolling the VC Spar complex in Brakpan. Police left the scene late on Tuesday night, taking statements from shop owners and customers who were present during the robbery.