Three suspects were killed and three more injured during a shoot-out with police in Phelandaba, Manguzi on Sunday.

SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said police were tracing three murder suspects involved in the killing of three people in 2023 in Manguzi.

“They were also investigating another murder that took place in Ingwavuma in October this year. Police received intelligence that the suspects were in Phelandaba, and when police approached them, the suspects fired at them.

“To protect themselves and other innocent residents, police returned fire, and a shoot-out ensued.

“During the shoot-out, two suspects were shot and fatally wounded at the scene. Four suspects were taken to a nearby health facility, where one suspect was declared dead on arrival.”

Netshiunda said two firearms were retrieved, one with its serial number partially filed off.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the other was a police firearm, which was reported lost in Newlands East in April 2009.

“Police records further indicate that the same firearm was recovered at Nhlanhleni Police Station in 2010. Investigations are under way to establish how the firearm ended up in the hands of criminals again.

Those found responsible for negligence or any act of criminality will face the full might of the law,” said Netshiunda.

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