Three suspected cash-in-transit robbers were killed in a shootout with police in Reservoir Hills, KwaZulu-Natal, during an operation targeting criminal activity.
Key Points:
- Three suspected robbers were killed in a police shootout in Reservoir Hills.
- Police recovered firearms and a grenade from the suspects’ vehicle.
- Investigations suggest the suspects were part of a long-standing criminal network.
Shootout with Police
Three suspected cash-in-transit robbers were fatally shot by police during a violent shootout in Reservoir Hills, KwaZulu-Natal, on Friday.
The incident began when local authorities, acting on reliable intelligence, attempted to intercept a group of criminals believed to be planning a house robbery. Brigadier Jay Naicker, spokesperson for the provincial police, outlined the events leading to the confrontation. Police had received a tip-off indicating a robbery was imminent and were provided with a description of the suspects’ vehicle.
Gun Battle Unfolds
“A description of the vehicle in which the suspects were traveling was given to the operational team. Police officers spotted the vehicle in Reservoir Hills, and when they attempted to stop it, the suspects opened fire, leading to a gun battle,” Naicker said.
Tragically, three of the suspects were fatally wounded in the exchange of gunfire. Authorities also recovered two firearms and a grenade from the vehicle, heightening concerns about the suspects’ willingness to resort to extreme violence.
Investigation Continues
Naicker confirmed that two police officers were injured during the gunfire, with bullets grazing their heads. They received immediate medical treatment at the scene from paramedics.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were wanted for a series of cash-in-transit heists dating back to 2021, suggesting a well-established criminal network. “Investigations are ongoing to determine if there are other cases involving the suspects. The recovered firearms will also undergo ballistics tests,” Naicker added.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shootout and the suspects’ criminal activities.