A father from Arena Park, Chatsworth, in KZN has been praised for his bravery and courage after he fought off and shot two suspects dead following an alleged house robbery on Sunday.

According to reports from the scene, it is alleged that the homeowner arrived at his property after a family outing to find his gate open.

Upon closer inspection of his home, he encountered the armed suspects, who were in possession of jewellery and other belongings after a thorough ransacking of the premises. Police say a scuffle ensued and the homeowner withdrew his firearm, fatally shooting both suspects.

The communications officer at Chatsworth SAPS, Captain Cheryl Pillay, explains the incident occurred at around 14:30.

“The complainant was returning to his home in Arena Park, Chatsworth, when he noticed that the gates to his property had been derailed. Upon entering his home, the complainant was accosted by two armed assailants. The complainant then defended himself by withdrawing his licensed firearm, fatally wounding both suspects. Upon further investigation, it was established that the house was burgled by the suspects. Chatsworth police are investigating a case of attempted burglary and two inquest dockets,” explains Pillay.

The homeowner’s actions did not go unnoticed as numerous social media posts and users commended him for his quick thinking and decision-making in the terrifying situation, with many commenting that this was a strong message to criminals.

One community member says: “Residents have had enough of the high crime rate and will now take matters into our own hands. This is a good thing that was done. It is either us or them and this is one of the few occasions where violent deaths brought hundreds together for the better.”

The scene itself was attended by members of the community who offered a helping hand in the clean-up of the man’s driveway. One of the suspects was shot in the head.

Many residents continued to welcome the homeowner’s actions in protecting both him and his family.

Further reports indicate the two men were seen scouting the area on foot before the incident. They later returned but were ultimately met with their fate.