The SAPS TRT conducted two critical operations recently in the OR Tambo District that resulted in significant arrests and a dramatic shootout.
Following intelligence about armed robbery suspects, the TRT first targeted a property on Mlonyeni Street, Southridge, Mthatha in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality. During the search, officers uncovered a trove of cellphones, suspected to be stolen, which the suspect could not account for. He was promptly arrested for possession of suspected stolen property, believed to be linked to a string of recent robberies in the area.
In a separate operation in the Sulenkama sector of Qumbu, the officers pursued reliable intelligence that led them to the Gwadana locality. There, the situation escalated when the team was met with gunfire, triggering a tense shootout. Tragically, the main suspect was fatally wounded in the exchange. Police recovered a 9mm pistol with an erased serial number along with rounds of ammunition from the scene.
Charges have been laid against the deceased for possession of an unlicensed firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, attempted murder, and attacking police officers. To ensure thorough investigation, the firearm will undergo ballistic analysis, and an inquest has been initiated by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).
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