Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata has commended the swift and decisive actions of SAPS New Brighton Crime Prevention (CPU)members in apprehending four males suspected of perpetrating repeated crimes in the community. During the altercation with police, three suspects were wounded, and one was fatally shot.
It is alleged that on Thursday, May 9, 2024 at about 17:25, the CPU members were patrolling along Mbilini Road in Kwazakele when they noticed a grey Hyundai i20 that was sought as stolen in Kwadwesi.
As they made a U-turn, they noticed that the suspects allegedly robbing a person in the street. The suspected vehicle drove off with police following closely. When they turned into Stofile Street, police attempted to stop it, however the vehicle started to speed away.
Shots were fired at police who returned fire. The driver of the Hyundai i20 lost control and careered off the road. Three suspects sustained gunshot wounds and one was fatally wounded.
Three firearms, five cellphones and the stolen vehicle were recovered. Police are busy probing their possible involvement in other crimes in the metro.
Colonel Priscilla Naidu said cases of inquest, attempted murder (x4), possession of suspected stolen property, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition and possession of stolen vehicle against the four suspects (ages between 23 and 33 years old) are under investigation.
The three injured suspects are expected to appear in the New Brighton magistrate court soon.
Ncata has iterated that the recovery of the firearms and the seizure of the stolen vehicle highlights the gravity of the threat posed by these criminals.
“It’s evident that these suspects who were armed, posed a significant danger to our community. I want to applaud the good work of our police officers involved for their bravery and professionalism in the face of danger. Despite being fired upon, they remained steadfast in their commitment to protecting our community. A thorough investigation will be conducted to ensure that these suspects remain behind bars. Our goal is to maintain the trust and confidence of the community we serve while relentlessly pursuing those who seek to harm it.”
