Suspect killed in shootout with cops in KZN, illegal firearms seized

“Criminals should know that police officers will always defend themselves when attacked.” This was the warning issued by acting provincial commissioner for KZN, Maj Gen Thulani Gonya following a shootout during which an armed suspect was fatally wounded by police officers.

On the day, Phoenix police officers were conducting routine patrols when they spotted a vehicle parked outside a house with its back doors open. Provincial police spokeswoman, Col Thembeka Mbele, said, “Suddenly, they saw a male coming out of the yard carrying something in his hand. The police tried to stop the suspect, who also joined others, who were in the vehicle but there was a shootout. The suspects fled towards Bhambayi in Inanda and a chase ensured. The suspects’ vehicle crashed into an embankment in Bhambayi and the suspects abandoned their vehicle and fled while firing shots at the police.”

During the exchange of gunfire, one of the suspects was fatally wounded.

“A 25-year-old suspect was placed under arrest and the other three fled the scene. Two illegal firearms with 23 rounds of ammunition were seized from the suspect,” she added.

Another suspect in his 20s was later arrested following an investigation by Phoenix police. The suspects will appear in the Verulam Magistrates Court on charges of attempted murder, possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.

“I’m glad that no injuries were sustained by police officers,” Maj Gen Gonya concluded.