By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
A police officer is among three suspected armed robbers who were shot and fatally wounded in a shootout with police in two separate shooting incidents in Ntuzuma, North of Durban on Sunday afternoon.
Fullview learnt that two suspects are believed to be rogue police officers who were involved in a robbery.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Col Robert Netshiunda said the suspects, who were involved in a robbery, were shot when confronted by police.
“When the suspects realised the presence of the police, they opened fire as they ran out of the house. Two suspects were shot and fatally wounded at the scene. They were both found wearing police headdresses. One of them was also in possession of a police firearm and a police bullet proof vest. Another police bullet proof vest and a police raincoat were found inside the house. A vehicle belonging to a police officer, who had just reported off duty earlier in the morning from his night shift at KwaMashu police station, was found at the scene, said Netshiunda.
Police then received another intelligence about an injured police officer who was hiding inside a shack at Phindangene informal settlement in Ntuzuma B.
“When the police arrived at the scene, the police Sergeant fired shots at the police officers and in a resultant shootout, he was shot and fatally wounded. He was found to be the owner of a police firearm which was found in possession of the slain suspect at the first crime scene, as well as the owner of the vehicle, added Netshiunda.
A manhunt is still underway for the remaining three suspect who are still at large. The house which the suspects were found in belongs to a known cash in transit robbery suspect who is out on bail. Investigations are also underway to establish if the police officer was involved in other robberies.
The Provincial Commissioner of KwaZulu-Natal Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has reiterated that police fight crime from within and that police officers who involve themselves in criminal activities will be met with the harsh wrath of the law.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects is urged to contact the nearest police station or call the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.