On Saturday, 2022-03-19 at about 22:00 a shootout ensued between Harare Police and suspects in 40 Section Makhaza, Khayelitsha. It was alleged that an e-hailing taxi was dropping off a passenger in that area when attacked by five armed suspects. The suspects in attempting to hijack the vehicle, shot and killed the passenger the driver escaped unharmed.

The quick response by police resulted in the shootout between police and the suspects. Two suspects were wounded during the shootout and are under police guard in hospital. The members confiscated two pistols on the scene of which the serial numbers were filed off.

Both suspects aged 22 and 32 respectively are expected to appear in the Khayelitsha Magistrates court once discharged from hospital. They are arrested for murder, attempted murder and possession of unlicensed firearms.

In an unrelated matter, on Sunday 22-03-20 at about 01:45 Steenberg Crime Prevention Unit was patrolling in St Monteque Village. While driving down St Bartholomew Street members noticed a suspicious looking male exiting a premises into the street with a firearm in his hand. When the suspect noticed the police vehicle he turned back into the premises. The members followed the suspect and saw him throwing the firearm over the fence.

The suspect, a 40-year-old male was arrested and the firearm with ammunition was recovered, he is currently in detention and will appear in court once charged.

On 2022-03-20 at about 04:00 Atlantis police members patrolled Penelope Street, Avondale, Atlantis when they stopped and searched an unknown male. The members found ammunition in his possession and upon searching his surroundings, especially where he was standing a firearm was found.

The firearm serial number was removed and 18 x 9mm rounds was found in his possession. A 29-year-old man was arrested on charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm, ammunition and possession of a prohibited firearm. Once charged he will appear before the Atlantis Magistrate’s court.

We appeal to anyone who may have information on crime to contact the SAPS on the Crime Stop on 08600 10111. All information will be treated with the required confidentiality.

Source: South African Police Service