A LEADER of the Inanda West Gang, believed to be linked to more than 20 cases including murder, robbery and arson, was killed on Thursday afternoon (January 30) in a shootout with police in Cottonlands, Verulam.

The suspect (22) had allegedly driven to uMhlanga to collect drugs and ammunition and was on his way back with two other gang members when police intercepted them.

One of his accomplices (27) was also fatally wounded in the shootout.

Provincial SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed the third suspect managed to flee the scene during the shootout.

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“Police received intelligence about the gang leader and his two accomplices who were driving to uMhlanga, reportedly to collect drugs and ammunition. When the three left uMhlanga, they swopped vehicles and police identified them and followed them until the suspects parked their vehicle along Vincent Dickinson Road in Cottonlands.

“When police approached their vehicle, the suspects opened fire towards the police and a shootout ensued. The 22-year-old gang leader and his 27-year-old accomplice sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the shootout. A search is underway for the third suspect who narrowly evaded arrest,” he said.

Netshiunda added that the gang leader had a warrant of arrest against him on a case of murder.

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“He was linked to over 20 cases and had allegedly killed over 10 people. His other cases included attempted murder, robberies, intimidation and arson. The suspects’ vehicle was yet to be thoroughly searched, however, a firearm had already been found in the possession of the gang leader,” he said.

The gang were also linked to crimes in the Inanda and KwaMashu communities.

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