Three suspects linked to multiple murders killed in gunbattle with KZN police
Police return fire after suspects opened shots in Phelandaba.
Image: FILE
Three suspects were shot dead and three others injured during a gun battle with police in the Phelandaba area of Emanguzi, KwaZulu-Natal, on Sunday.
KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said officers were pursuing suspects linked to multiple murders committed in the region.
"Police were tracing suspects who were wanted for three murders which were committed at Emanguzi in 2023 and another murder which happened at Ingwavuma in October 2025," he said.
Officers received intelligence that the wanted individuals were hiding in Phelandaba. When police moved in, the suspects allegedly opened fire.
"When police approached them, the suspects fired shots at police officers. To protect themselves and other innocent residents, police returned fire and a shootout ensued," Netshiunda said.
Two suspects were killed at the scene while four were taken to a nearby health facility, where a third suspect was declared dead on arrival.
The remaining three injured suspects are under police guard.
Two firearms were recovered, one with its serial number partially filed off. Preliminary investigations indicate the second weapon had previously been issued to police.
"Investigations are underway to establish how the firearm ended up in the hands of criminals again. Those who will be found to be responsible for negligence or any act of criminality will face the full might of the law," Netshiunda said.
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