A MAN was killed during a shoot-out between security guards and suspected business robbers in Hlabisa on Friday.

SAPS spokesperson Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said police received reports of a business robbery at around 8.20am.

“On arrival, police discovered the body of a 26-year-old man with gunshot wounds. He was certified dead at the scene.

“It is alleged the customer was shot and killed during a shoot-out between suspects and security guards,” Ngcobo said.

One suspect (24), who was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, was arrested.

“He is expected to appear before court tomorrow,” Ngcobo said.

According to police, eight armed suspects accosted the employees of a business in the area and held them at gunpoint before taking money, cigarettes and airtime.

Ngcobo said, when the suspects came across security guards as they fled, a shoot-out between the two groups broke out.

“The security guards, along with members of the community apprehended one suspect. The investigation is continuing,” Ngcobo said.

According to KwaMsane SAPS station commander Colonel Samuel Mdletshe, the suspect is from the eMfekayi area, near Mtubatuba.

Mdletshe said the fact that the arrested suspect was from eMfekayi reiterated his assertion that this area was ‘a training ground’ for criminals and a crime hot spot in the region.

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