Cape Town – A 39-year-old wanted suspect was fatally shot during a shootout with South African Police Service (SAPS) officers in Mpumalanga.
The suspect, sought for multiple armed robberies, was cornered in Dennilton following intelligence-led investigations.
Upon seeing the police, he opened fire, resulting in an exchange of gunfire during which one officer was injured and a 13-year-old bystander was accidentally hit.
“A (police) report indicates that the team members were following some intelligence-driven information about a suspect who was sought for a series of heinous crimes such as armed robberies committed in various areas including in Vosman, Siyabuswa, Tweefontein, KwaMhlanga, and Mmametlake.
“In a well-coordinated operation, the astute members (police officers) cornered the suspect in Dennilton after intensive investigative efforts,” provincial police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli said.
He added: “Unfortunately, during the confrontation, one officer sustained injuries and was promptly evacuated to a medical facility for urgent treatment. In response to the imminent threat posed by the armed suspect, the SAPS officers engaged in a defensive manoeuvre to protect themselves and innocent bystanders,” said Mdhluli.
“It was during this time when the suspect was fatally shot during the exchange of gunfire whilst a 13-year-old minor somehow sustained some injuries and he could have been hit by a stray bullet. He was also taken to hospital for medical treatment.”
After securing the scene, law enforcement officers conducted a thorough search and recovered a firearm believed to have been used by the suspect in various criminal activities
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) will investigate the incident.
Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela commended the officers’ bravery and urged public vigilance as the 2024 general elections approach.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
