EIGHT suspected robbers and a policeman were killed in a shootout between members of the SAPS National Intervention Unit (NIU) and alleged robbers.
According to Brigadier Jay Naicker, KZN police spokesman, the incident began on Sunday night through Monday morning after the SAPS NIU and K9 Unit responded to information about a possible ATM bombing that was going to take place on Sunday night in the Hammarsdale Industrial area.
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“When police confronted the men, they were met with gunfire during which a 44-year-old warrant officer from the National Intervention Unit was shot dead.”
Naicker said the men fled the scene on foot, but they were later found in the nearby bushes where another shootout with police took place.
“Three men were shot dead and the SAPS team continued with the search for members of this armed gang and a second group of men were tracked down to a homestead in the Mophela area within the Mpumalanga Police Station precinct.
“In another exchange of gunfire where police were forced to respond, another five men were shot dead,” said Naicker.
Police recovered two rifles, four handguns, five explosive devices, two detonators, a gas mask, a goggle, a pair of gloves and two cars.
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The Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Bheki Langa expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family of the fallen member.
“Our members put their lives on the line on a daily basis to ensure that the people of South Africa are and feel safe,” he said.
The SAPS Provincial Organised Crime Unit is investigating the matter and the Independent Police Investigative Directorate has been informed of the events that unfolded.
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