Deadly Shootout Ends For Two Suspects Linked To Family Massacre

Holifil

02 Apr, 2025

Two suspects wanted for the murder of seven family members were killed in a shootout with KZN police.
Allegedly, the suspects stormed a house in the Hlokozi area near Highflats on September 11, 2024, and opened fire on the occupants.
Police discovered an unknown woman who had been fatally wounded in the suspects' vehicle following the shootout.

A high-stakes shootout between criminals and police in KwaZulu-Natal resulted in the deaths of two suspects and an unknown woman in Highflats. Image: KZN SAPS Source: Original

HIGHFLATS — It was a tense and deadly encounter on St Faith's Main Road in Highflats, KwaZulu-Natal, on Tuesday, October 8, 2024. That’s where police engaged in a fierce gun battle, ultimately leading to the deaths of two suspects. These men were wanted in connection with the murders of seven family members, including three children, in the Hlokozi area just outside Highflats on September 11.

This wasn’t just any crime scene—it was a horrifying tragedy where an entire family was gunned down while they were simply watching TV in their living room. The victims included Bahlakaniphile, Phillie, Nompilo, S'khulu, Siphosethu, Yonelisa, and Zemvelo Khambule. The suspects had allegedly stormed the home without mercy, leaving behind a trail of devastation that shocked the community.

Two Suspects Linked to Massacre Killed in Dramatic Shootout

The investigation into this harrowing crime led police to track the suspects after receiving valuable intelligence. Officers spotted a suspicious vehicle that matched the description provided during their investigation. KZN police spokesperson Colonel Richard Netshiunda gave an account of the dramatic events that unfolded:

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"When police attempted to pull over the suspicious car, the occupants inside refused to comply. Not only did they ignore lawful orders, but they also fired shots directly at the officers. With no other option but to return fire, police engaged in a deadly shootout. In the end, two suspects were killed. Tragically, an unknown woman who was accompanying them in the vehicle also lost her life. Officers recovered a rifle and a police-issued pistol from the scene."

"The woman's identity remains unknown at this time, and we're actively investigating her role in the situation. We're also searching for a suspect who managed to escape on foot during the chaos," Netshiunda added.

Colonel Netshiunda emphasized that the South African Police Service (SAPS) is fully committed to reducing crime in KwaZulu-Natal. "We are doing everything in our power to ensure the safety of our communities. This includes pursuing dangerous criminals and holding them accountable for their actions," he said.

Four CIT Suspects Killed in Verulam and Ndwedwe Shootouts

Verulam Shootout Ends with Two Fatalities

In another significant development, four cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery suspects were killed in separate shootouts with police in Verulam and Ndwedwe on Friday, October 4, 2024. In Verulam, police encountered two CIT robbers, one of whom was identified as a highly sought-after suspected mastermind behind CIT heists.

The operation began when police identified the suspects' vehicles on New Glasgow Road during a routine patrol. After catching up to the suspects, officers attempted to pull them over. Instead of surrendering, the suspects resisted and exchanged gunfire with the police. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of both suspects.

Ndwedwe Operation Nets Two More Suspects

Meanwhile, in Ndwedwe, police tracked down two additional CIT robbery suspects. The operation involved a high-speed chase and a subsequent shootout. Both suspects were killed in the confrontation. Colonel Richard Netshiunda praised the officers involved for their bravery and dedication to protecting the public.

These operations highlight the relentless efforts of law enforcement in KwaZulu-Natal to combat violent crime and bring justice to affected communities. The SAPS remains committed to ensuring that criminals face the consequences of their actions, no matter how dangerous the circumstances may be.