Alleged taxi hitmen killed in shoot-out with KZN police
Police retaliated after murder suspects opened fire on them while trying to evade arrest.
Four men wanted in connection with taxi industry-related murders were shot dead by KZN police on Monday.
Among the suspected hitmen was a 40-year-old wanted in connection with two Bergville shootings that claimed the lives of a taxi association chairperson and his deputy in February and June respectively.
Police carried out an intelligence-led operation after information was received about the suspects’ whereabouts in the Mooi River area. Officers intercepted their vehicle on the N3 and signalled for them to pull over. However, the driver sped off and took the Hidcote turnoff, joining the R103 towards Estcourt.
During the ensuing chase, the suspects opened fire on police, who retaliated. During the shoot-out, four occupants of the fleeing vehicle were shot and killed.
A rifle and a pistol were recovered, along with ammunition. The firearms will be sent for ballistics testing to see if they are linked to other violent crimes in the country.
Although the SAPS vehicle was riddled with bullet holes, no police officers were injured in the shoot-out.
Read original story on www.citizen.co.za