In the early hours of 5 January 2026 two armed suspects were killed during a shootout with police in the Margate policing area, near Uvongo. The incident occurred during an operation targeting illegal firearms. According to police, no officers were injured in the exchange, and five unlicensed firearms, including two AK-47 rifles, were recovered.
What Happened
Police officers conducted an intelligence-led operation after receiving information about individuals in possession of unlicensed firearms. Upon arrival at the targeted house, officers announced their presence but received no response. When they entered the premises, the two occupants allegedly opened fire. Police returned fire, fatally wounding both suspects.
Recovered weapons include:
- 2 AK-47 assault rifles
- 3 pistols (unlicensed)
The scene was secured for further investigation by the provincial SAPS forensic team.
Official Response
KwaZulu-Natal SAPS confirmed the operation was part of ongoing efforts to remove illegal firearms from the province.
Community Impact
The Uvongo area, located along the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal, has seen a rise in violent incidents involving illegal firearms.
This latest police action is expected to bring temporary relief to residents, but concerns remain about the broader network supplying high-powered weapons in the region.
