A dramatic incident unfolded in Mthatha on August 4, 2024, when police fatally shot three suspected extortionists, including alleged ringleader Chief Dalinzolo Mareke, in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality.
According to Major General Phumzile Cetyana, South African Police Service Commissioner in the OR Tambo region, police were conducting a stop-and-search operation in Mandela Park when they intercepted Mareke’s vehicle. Although firearms were found, they were licensed. However, when police withdrew from their patrol and headed back to base, they noticed they were being followed by two cars.
The occupants of the trailing vehicles confronted the police, sparking a quarrel that escalated into gunfire. Police officers returned fire, resulting in the deaths of all three suspects. One officer sustained a leg injury and is receiving medical treatment.
The legitimacy of Mareke’s chieftaincy had been disputed by Abathembu kingdom leader King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo, who emphasized that all appointed chiefs in his region must be introduced to him. Contralesa Secretary-General Zolani Mkiva welcomed the swift police action against extortionists, acknowledging Mareke’s involvement in the criminal activities.
The incident marks a significant crackdown on extortion in the Mthatha west region, which has plagued residents and businesspeople in Slovo Park, Mandela Park, and Chris Hani Location.
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Excellent work from the Police.