Durban – In a dramatic early morning confrontation that unfolded like a scene straight out of a Hollywood action flick, police in KwaZulu-Natal brought down one of Durban's most wanted criminals, ending a reign of terror that had gripped the city for months. The 26-year-old suspect, wanted in connection with a triple murder and an attempted murder, was killed in a shootout with officers from the Inanda Task Team in the Lusaka area of Inanda on Sunday morning.
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, was a known figure in the criminal underworld of Durban, feared for his ruthlessness and involvement in a string of violent crimes. His death marks a significant victory for the police, who had been pursuing him relentlessly for weeks.
"He was being sought for three counts of murder and one of attempted murder. As police officers breached the premises they were confronted by the suspect who was armed. The 26-year-old was killed in the shootout. None of the police officers were injured." said Brigadier Jay Naicker, provincial SAPS spokesperson.
The shootout, which took place at the suspect's hideout, was a tense and dangerous affair. According to eyewitness accounts, the suspect, heavily armed, engaged in a fierce firefight with the police, exchanging a barrage of bullets. The scene was reportedly chaotic, with residents of the area cowering in their homes as the gunshots echoed through the streets.
"It was like a warzone," said one resident, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals. "We heard the gunshots, they were so loud, and then we saw the police cars speeding away. It was terrifying."
Following the shootout, police recovered an unlicensed 9mm pistol from the suspect's possession. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) was immediately notified of the incident and dispatched investigators to the scene.
The suspect's death has been seen as a victory for the community, with some expressing relief that the reign of terror is over, while others are concerned about the potential for retaliation from the suspect's associates.
"We're relieved that he's finally off the streets. He was a menace to our community, and we've been living in fear for too long. But we're also worried about what might happen next.," said a resident who also requested anonymity.
