Slain suspects linked to Mzingazi botched CIT heist

The John Ross highway in Richards Bay was the scene of a Wild West-style high-speed chase and shoot-out late last night (Thursday) as police took down eight suspects.

SAPS KZN spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda this morning (Friday) confirmed that the suspects, all of whom were fatally shot during the gun battle, were linked with Tuesday’s botched cash-in-transit heist in Mzingazi in which school teacher Bonisiwe Maphumulo tragically lost her life after being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

ALSO READ: Thursday night shoot-out on John Ross highway

Netshiunda said the suspects were believed to be on their way to eSikhaleni where they had planned rob a shop owned by a foreign national.

“Police operationalised intelligence about the suspects and their vehicle was spotted driving along the John Ross highway towards Richards Bay,” said Netshiunda.

“Police intercepted them and signalled for the driver to stop. The driver ignored the police’s lawful instructions and sped off. A high speed vehicle chase ensued and the suspects started firing shots towards the police.

“The suspects, who were also linked with a recent cash-in-transit robbery in the Mzingazi area, were found in possession of three firearms, two replica guns and house break-in implements.

“Investigations are under way to ascertain if the firearms are linked to other crimes scenes,” he said.

This incident brings the total number of suspects shot and killed during police shoot-outs this week to 10, continued Netshiunda.

One shoot-out took place on Wednesday in uMlazi outside Durban and another on Thursday in KwaMashu.

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