Four suspects believed to be behind a series of violent crimes have been killed in a shootout with police in the south of Durban.
According to South African Police Service (SAPS), the suspects were wanted in connection with multiple offences, including murder, attempted murder, car and truck hijackings, as well as business and residential robberies.
The group had allegedly been terrorising communities in Mbumbulu, KwaMakhutha, Ntuzuma and Folweni.
Police say crime intelligence officers spotted the suspects’ vehicle in the Bellair area on Monday afternoon. The suspects allegedly ignored orders to stop, prompting a high-speed chase.
KwaZulu-Natal SAPS spokesperson Robert Netshiunda said the pursuit ended at a house believed to have been used as a hideout.
“A shootout ensued between police and the suspects at the house. Four suspects were shot and fatally wounded,” Netshiunda said.
One suspect managed to evade arrest and remains at large, with police continuing their search.
Authorities confirmed that four firearms were recovered from the scene. No police officers were injured during the incident.