Four suspects involved in an alleged kidnapping syndicate were fatally shot, and one was injured during a shoot-out with police in Marikana Location outside Qoboqobo in the early hours of September 25.
According to a statement by the Eastern Cape provincial government, police responded to a tip-off about a house in the Marikana area being used for kidnappings.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa reported that members of the Tactical Response Team (TRT) from Mdantsane and East London followed up on information about suspects allegedly in possession of unlicensed firearms and proceeded to the Marikana area in Qoboqobo/Keiskamahoek.
Mawisa said on arrival at the scene, police struggled to enter the identified house due to a long boundary wall, but they eventually managed to scale it.
“As members were entering the premises, the suspects tried to flee using back exits, but they were cornered, and they started shooting at the police.
“Members retaliated, and during the process, four suspects were fatally wounded, and one suspect sustained gunshot wounds and was taken to the nearest hospital.
“The deceased suspects, aged between 29 and 40, are known, but their identities are withheld. The fifth suspect, aged 38, is currently under police guard.
“Police members escaped unscathed,” she explained.
She revealed that police recovered three unlicensed firearms with ammunition and two stolen bakkies, a Toyota Hilux and a Corsa.
The Eastern Cape provincial government statement stated that there was a discovery of bloodstains at the scene, suggesting that the house was used as a torture chamber.
Mawisa stated that the case has been transferred to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for further investigation.
Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane stated that the Provincial Government will continue to work to ensure community safety.
“As the Premier of the Eastern Cape, I reassure our citizens that we are committed to combating crime and protecting the vulnerable. We will provide support to the victims and their families affected by this incident,” Mabuyane stated.
