By Kopano Dibakwane
A 39 year old suspect who was reportedly wanted for several armed robberies in areas such as Vosman, Siyabuswa, Tweefontein, Kwamhlanga and Mmametlhake, has died during a shootout with the police at Malaining in Denilton on Thursday 23 May 2024.
The incident reportedly occurred at around 23h00 when the suspect was cornered by Mpumalanga SAPS(South African Police Service) Provincial Team, following an intelligence-driven investigation.
According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, one police officer sustained injuries during the tense gunfire exchange, including a 13 year-old minor who was suspected to have been hit by a stray bullet. He said that the suspect allegedly opened fire when approached by the police.
“ The SAPS officers engaged in a defensive manoeuvre to protect themselves and innocent bystanders,” he said.
Mdhluli also reported that a firearm was recovered from the suspect after the fierce shootout.
“ The recovered weapon will undergo forensic examination to establish any possible involvement in previous crimes. The IPID(Independent Police Investigative Directorate) will be investigating the shootout,” said Mdhluli.
He added that both the injured police officer and the 13 year-old minor were taken to hospital for medical treatment.
