MTHATHA – In a dramatic turn of events, six armed suspects were killed in a shootout with police on the R61 road between Mthatha and Ngcobo on Monday afternoon.
Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, a police spokesperson, explained that the police were conducting an intelligence-driven operation aimed at tackling extortion in the area.
“Police stopped the vehicle, and the suspects stopped. The suspects stepped out of the vehicle and opened fire on police members,” Gantana said.
“Officers returned fire in self-defense, resulting in the fatal shooting of all six suspects, she added.
Forensic teams are currently working to formally identify the deceased. “SAPS members remain on the scene conducting forensic investigations and processing evidence. Firearms recovered from the suspects will undergo ballistic analysis,” Gantana added.
The investigation will be led by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate to ensure a thorough review of the incident.
This shootout highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat crime in the region.