It is alleged on 4 January 2020 at 19:00, a group of unknown suspects entered the local tavern at KwaMnyandu area in Pietermaritzburg. Without uttering a word, a 24-year-old man was shot on the head. He was declared dead at the scene.

The suspects fled the scene in their getaway vehicle. The Plessislaer police were immediately notified of the incident and swiftly responded. The information was followed about the suspect’s vehicle seen driving on the Edendale Main Road. The police intercepted the vehicle on the Edendale Road towards the school but they were met with gunfire and there was a shoot-out.

A 24-year-old suspect sustained gunshot wounds on the legs and was taken to hospital where he is under police guard. An unlicensed revolver with ammunition was found in his possession. The other suspects fled to different directions. Other five suspects aged between 22 and 25 were apprehended with assistance of the community members. The vehicle used as a getaway was also impounded by the police.

Charges of murder, attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition are being investigated by Plessislaer SAPS. The arrested suspects are expected to appear tomorrow, 6 January 2020 in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrates’ Court.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula commended the police officers for the speedy arrest of the suspects. We would like to thank the community for their partnership in the fight against crime. We will continue with our positive approach and to ensure that all the perpetrators of crime are brought to book, he said.

Source: South African Police Service