A 46-year-old Verulam man, identified as alleged gang leader Anthony Gounden, was shot and killed in the early hours of Sunday morning in the Sibaya area.

Gounden, who was reportedly the leader of the “Tatu” gang, was found at the BP garage near Sibaya Casino on the M4. Police and emergency services responded to the scene after reports of gunfire.

According to Gareth Naidoo of VIP Medical Rescue, Gounden was shot multiple times. Authorities believe the incident was a hit, although investigations are still ongoing. No arrests have been made at this stage.

Gounden was a well-known and feared figure in Verulam and had previously been linked to serious criminal allegations.

He had been facing charges for the attempted murder of an off-duty metro police officer relating to an incident on March 9, 2024.

His name also surfaced during court proceedings in April 2024, when Hawks investigator, detective warrant officer Sivan Naidoo, testified in the Verulam Magistrate’s Court.

The court heard allegations that Gounden held significant influence over individuals at the Verulam Police Station.

It was alleged that some police detectives were on Gounden’s payroll, and there were claims that corrupt officials assisted drug dealers in setting up security companies to gain access to firearms.

Police spokesperson lieutenant colonel Paul Magwaza said Durban North police are investigating a case of murder.