After a spate of shootings in Durban, KZN Police believe they have broken the back of a syndicate behind the recent gun violence.

Five suspects were shot and killed during a shootout with police yesterday, while a suspected drug dealer was arrested yesterday morning during an intelligence-driven operation.

“KwaZulu Natal Police’s Anti-Gang Unit were searching for suspects linked to a murder case where three people, including a child, were shot and killed in Springfield on March 21. They spotted a vehicle fitting the description of the vehicle used in the commission of the crime,” says provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, who adds that the suspect is currently in police custody.

Following the arrest, further investigation led the team to an identified premises in Morningside where five other suspected drug dealers were shot and killed during a shootout with the police’s Anti-Gang Unit.

“Five firearms, including three rifles and two pistols, money and drugs worth an undisclosed amount of money, have been seized by police. The arrested suspect will likely face charges of possession of drugs, illegal possession of firearms and possession of a stolen motor vehicle,” says Netshiunda.

The Minister of Police, Bheki Cele, says this incident should send a stern warning to all criminals.

“Well done to all involved – we have been facing the challenge of shootings and drug-related crimes in KZN, and these suspects are believed to be part of the syndicate that has been operating in Durban and surrounding areas. Good work to the team, but there is more that still needs to be done, so we are definitely coming for more of them.”

The police’s forensic experts were last night still processing the crime scene, and because police officers were involved in the shooting, members of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate were also on the scene.