Mbombela – One of Mpumalanga’s most wanted suspects has been fatally wounded in a shootout with police after allegedly opening fire on officers during an operation in Mayflower in the early hours of Saturday.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the suspect was wanted in connection with several serious and violent crimes, including murder, attempted murder and business robbery.
Police said officers acted on intelligence that the suspect was at a tavern in Glenmore, within the Mayflower policing precinct.
“Police received information that the suspect they have been looking for was at a tavern in Glenmore, within the Mayflower Policing Precinct. As Police entered the yard of the tavern, the suspect opened fire on the Police, and a shootout ensued,” SAPS said in a statement.
The suspect was fatally wounded during the exchange of gunfire.
“During the shootout, the suspect was fatally wounded. Next to the suspect, Police recovered a firearm, with serial numbers filed-off, believed to have been used by the suspect as he shot at the Police,” the statement said.
Police said the suspect was linked to numerous serious and violent crimes committed in and around Mpumalanga and had been on the province’s wanted list.
Acting Mpumalanga Police Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the officers involved in the operation.
“We commend our members for their bravery and professionalism in defending themselves and the community when suspect fired shots at them.”
He said the outcome should serve as a warning to violent criminals.
“What happened to the suspect sends a strong message to other criminals that we will not hesitate to act decisively when we are shot at. We remain committed to ensuring that communities in Mpumalanga are safe and that those responsible for violent crimes are brought to justice.”
The incident is expected to be investigated in line with standard procedures following police-involved shootings.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
