Three suspected murderers fatally wounded in a shootout with Police in KwaDlangezwa

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner KwaZulu-Natal

DURBAN - Three suspects who were wanted for at least ten cases of murder were shot and fatally wounded in a shootout with police at KwaDlangezwa area in Empangeni in the early hours of Friday, 26 July 2024.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Stabilization Team, which also forms part of Operation Vala uMgodi, operationalised intelligence about the suspects who were hiding at house in KwaDlangezwa. When the police announced their presence, the suspects opened fire, sparking a shootout which ended with the three suspects fatally wounded.

The suspects, who were also alleged to have been involved in the ATM bombing incident in Esikhaleni which left one suspect fatally wounded on Thursday, were found in possession of at least two firearms. The crime scene was yet to be properly searched for more exhibits.

The Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has reiterated that criminals who shoot at the police should expect the same kind of response. "Police officers have a mandate to arrest and bring perpetrators to justice, however if police find themselves under gunfire, the only option they have in order to come out alive is through the return of fire", said Lieutenant General Mkhwanazi.

Ends

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