Several suspects killed in shootout with police in Richards Bay, KZN

At least eight suspects have been killed in a shootout with police in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

The gun battle took place near Richards Bay on Thursday night.

It is understood the criminals were allegedly on their way to rob a shop owned by a foreign national when they were accosted by police on the John Ross Highway.

Shootout

Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said officers operationalised intelligence about the suspects and their vehicle was spotted driving along the John Ross Highway towards Richards Bay.

“Police intercepted them and signalled for the driver to stop. The driver ignored police’s lawful instructions and sped off.

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“A high speed vehicle chase ensued and the suspects started firing shots towards the police. Police returned fire and during the shootout, eight suspects were shot and fatally wounded,” Netshiunda said.

Arms

Netshunda said the suspects were also linked to a recent cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery that took place at the Mzingazi area.

“They were found in possession of three firearms, two replica guns and house breaking implements. Investigations are underway to ascertain if the firearms are linked to other crimes scenes.”

At least eight suspects have been killed in a shootout with police near Richards Bay on Thursday night.
The criminals were allegedly on their way to rob a shop owned by a foreign national when they were accosted by officers on the John Ross Highway. #Shootout #KZN Pics: Saps… pic.twitter.com/hmvkSM6yZn

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Gun battles

The shootout brings the total number of suspects shot and fatally wounded during shootouts this week to 10.

On Wednesday, one suspect was shot and fatally wounded in a shootout with police at F Section in Umlazi.

Netshiunda said officers were searching for suspects who were wanted for a string of murder and cash in transit robbery cases when they received information about the suspects’ whereabouts.

“When police arrived at a residence at F Section, two suspects opened fire towards the police and during a resultant shootout, one suspect was shot and fatally wounded and the other one ran into the darkness and narrowly evaded arrest.”

Hijacking

A day later, another suspect was shot and fatally wounded during an altercation with police and two more were arrested at F Section in KwaMashu.

Netshiunda said officers responded to reports of a hijacked vehicle in Phoenix.

The hijacked vehicle was spotted at KwaMashu with three occupants and at the sight of police officers, one suspect got out of the vehicle and ran on foot while shooting at police officers. Police gave chase and after the shootout, the suspect was found to have sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

The arrested suspects are expected to appear in court soon.     

ALSO READ: Three suspects shot dead in gun battle with KZN police