Police recover two firearms after shootout in KwaZulu-Natal
Three suspects linked to a series of cash-in-transit (CIT) robberies dating back to 2021 were killed in a gun battle with police in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). The incident took place in Reservoir Hills, Durban, on Friday morning.
KZN police spokesperson Brigadier Jay Naicker confirmed that two firearms were recovered from the scene after the shootout. The police had received intelligence about the suspects planning a house robbery in the area and were able to locate their vehicle based on the description provided.
Upon attempting to stop the suspects’ vehicle, they opened fire at the police, leading to a confrontation. Three suspects were fatally wounded in the exchange, and a hand grenade was discovered in their vehicle. Two police officers sustained minor injuries during the shootout but were treated on-site by paramedics.
Investigations and Ballistics Testing
Naicker mentioned that ongoing investigations will determine whether the suspects were involved in other criminal activities in KZN and beyond. The firearms recovered from the scene will undergo ballistics testing to ascertain their connection to any previous crimes.
Responding to Deadly Criminality
Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola recently defended the use of deadly force by officers in combatting violent criminals. With a rise in armed confrontations between law enforcement and dangerous suspects, the need for decisive action has become critical.
Since April 1st of the previous year, 21 police officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. Masemola emphasized the importance of community support in the fight against criminality, especially when officers are targeted by armed perpetrators.
He stressed that the police will continue to respond firmly to criminal threats, as authorized by relevant legislation governing their operations. Masemola also expressed concern about individuals who defend or support criminals, urging a united front against crime.
The recent incident in KZN serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the ongoing battle against organized crime. The recovered firearms and ongoing investigations will shed light on the extent of the suspects’ criminal activities and help prevent future incidents of violence.
