Police in KwaZulu-Natal said five suspected criminals wanted for the murder of a couple were killed in a gun battle with police on Sunday night.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the shooting incident took place in the Mophela area in Mpumalanga township in Hammersdale.
“Police gathered intelligence about the suspects driving along the Mophela main road. Police caught up with the suspects and signalled for them to stop. The suspects ignored police instructions and instead opened fire at law enforcement officers.
“Police returned fire, and during the shootout, five suspects were shot and fatally wounded.”
He said a thorough search was yet to be conducted inside the suspects’ vehicle, however, three firearms were found in the possession of the suspects.
“The suspects were wanted for the murder of a 66-year-old man who was shot and killed at his home in the Ekwandeni area on Saturday last week.”
He said the man had survived a hail of bullets in January, and his wife was shot and killed at their home in February this year.
“The suspects are also linked to the murder of two police officers.”
Netshuinda said investigations are continuing, and there are possibilities that the suspects could be linked to more violent crimes.
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