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Two suspects aged 27 and 30 were fatally shot during a gunfight with police at Glebelands Hostel in Umlazi on Monday night, 20 October 2025. The confrontation occurred while officers were executing a planned operation to apprehend a suspect linked to a hijacking incident in Harding in September 2025.
What Happened
The police operation stemmed from a hijacking case on 19 September 2025, where a van was taken at gunpoint by five men in Harding. One suspect was arrested shortly afterward, and investigations continued to track down the remaining perpetrators.
On receiving information that one of the wanted suspects was hiding at Glebelands Hostel, police planned a targeted intervention. When officers arrived and identified themselves at the suspect’s room, they were met with gunfire. In the exchange that followed, two suspects were fatally wounded.
Police recovered two unlicensed firearms and six rounds of ammunition from the scene.
Official Response
Police confirmed that the operation was part of efforts to track down outstanding suspects involved in trio crimes, including hijacking.
The SAPS praised the operation for removing illegal weapons from circulation. “Unlicensed firearms pose a significant threat to public safety,” said a police spokesperson. “We remain committed to dismantling criminal networks and getting guns off the streets.”
The recovered weapons will undergo ballistic testing to determine possible links to other crimes.
Community Impact
The Glebelands Hostel area has long been associated with criminal activity and violence. Residents expressed mixed feelings relief that weapons were seized, but concern about ongoing safety challenges in the area.
