Deadly Shootouts In KwaZulu-Natal: Three Suspects Killed, Cops Injured

Holifil

01 Apr, 2025

Three suspects lost their lives in separate gunfights, leaving three officers injured in KwaZulu-Natal.
These incidents unfolded in Maphumulo on Tuesday and in Durban and Mariannhill on Wednesday.
A massive manhunt is now underway for one suspect who managed to escape after a shootout in Mariannhill.

Three intense shootouts in KwaZulu-Natal have left three suspects dead and three police officers injured. Images: @DasenThathiahSource: Twitter

DURBAN — Things have taken a violent turn in KwaZulu-Natal, where three suspects were killed and three police officers were injured during separate gunfights. These incidents highlight the dangerous situations law enforcement officers face daily while protecting the public.

On Wednesday, September 11, two officers were caught in a dangerous crossfire in Maphumulo, just outside Stanger. They were pursuing a suspect linked to a murder and a cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery. The tension was palpable as the officers tracked the suspect to an address in Okhalweni.

Deadly Confrontations in KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal provincial spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda gave a detailed account of the events. He explained that the officers were injured during the intense exchange of gunfire. The suspect, however, showed no signs of cooperation.

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"When the police finally tracked him down at an address in Okhalweni early Wednesday morning, he refused to surrender. Instead, he opened fire on the officers. In response, the officers had no choice but to use minimum force to enter the house and apprehend him."

"The officers returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect. Despite the injuries they sustained, the officers were given medical attention at a nearby hospital and are recovering," Netshiunda added.

In a separate incident later that same day, police were on the trail of another suspect wanted for murder and attempted murder. This case dates back to the early hours of September 4, when the suspect allegedly entered a third-floor apartment on Mansel Road in Durban and shot a couple in their bed.

Netshiunda detailed the grim scene: "A man was declared dead at the scene, while his female companion was rushed to the hospital with gunshot wounds. Miraculously, their three-year-old child was unharmed during the chaos." The suspect was eventually traced to an informal settlement in Cato Crest, where another shootout ensued.

"The suspect opened fire on the police, prompting them to return fire. Unfortunately, the suspect was shot dead. One officer sustained a minor injury after being struck in his bullet-resistant vest, but paramedics quickly treated him on the scene."

Yet another dangerous situation arose a day earlier, on Tuesday, September 10. Officers responded to reports of a hijacked taxi in Mariannhill. The alleged hijackers dropped off the driver on Edwin Swales Drive before the police caught up with them on Cato Manor Road. The situation escalated quickly.

"The suspect in the passenger seat opened fire on the officers, leading to a fierce gunfight. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. However, the passenger continued to shoot, forcing the officers to return fire. The suspect was fatally wounded during the shootout."

Two firearms were recovered from the vehicle. A massive manhunt is now underway for the suspect who managed to escape the scene. Netshiunda emphasized the determination of the police force, saying:

"We will never back down, even when faced with gunfire. When suspects shoot at police, it won't stop us from pursuing them relentlessly."

"When we confront armed suspects, we send in teams prepared for such actions. If they choose to fire at law enforcement, they should expect the same level of force in return. If someone has to die in these situations, that person must not be wearing blue."

Crime Prevention Wardens Face Backlash in Reiger Park

In a related story, Briefly News reported that Crime Prevention Wardens were physically attacked by angry residents in Reiger Park. Social activist @Abramjee shared a video clip of the incident on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, September 9. The video quickly went viral, amassing over 800,000 views within 24 hours of its release.

The situation in Reiger Park underscores the complex relationship between law enforcement and local communities. While officers and wardens work tirelessly to maintain safety, their efforts sometimes lead to tension and conflict. As these events continue to unfold, it's clear that both sides must find ways to bridge the gap and work together for the greater good.