UPDATE: Five suspects killed in shoot-out linked to ongoing Durban shootings
A suspect was arrested after they were seen in a vehicle linked to the recent Springfield shooting that left three, including a child, dead.
AFTER a spate of shootings in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Police believe they have broken the back of a syndicate behind the recent gun violence.
Five suspects were shot and killed during a shoot-out with police today, Saturday, April 1. This after a suspected drug dealer was arrested this morning during an intelligence-driven operation.
“KwaZulu Natal Police’s Anti-Gang Unit were searching for suspects linked to a murder case where three people, including a child, were shot and killed on Tuesday, March 21 in Springfield. They spotted a vehicle fitting the description of the vehicle used in the commission of the crime,” said SAPS provincial spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, who added that the suspect is currently in police custody.
Related news: Five killed in Morningside shoot-out
Following the arrest, further investigation led the team to an identified premises in Morningside where five other suspected drug dealers were shot and killed during a shoot-out with the police’s Anti-Gang Unit.
“Five firearms, including three rifles and two pistols, money and drugs, worth an undisclosed amount of money, have been seized by police. The arrested suspect will likely face charges of possession of drugs, illegal possession of firearms and possession of a stolen motor vehicle,” said Netshiunda.
The Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele, says this incident should send a stern warning to all criminals.
Also read: Lives shattered in spate of shootings | SAPS share safety tips
“Well done to all involved – we have been facing the challenge of shootings and drug-related crimes in KZN, and these suspects are believed to be part of the syndicate that has been operating in Durban and surrounding areas. Good work to the team, but there is more that still needs to be done, so we are definitely coming for more of them.”
The police’s forensic experts are still processing the crime scene. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is also on scene.
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