Three Suspects Fatally Wounded in Shootout With SAPS TRT Members in Ngqeleni
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Three suspected extortionists have been fatally wounded during a shootout with members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Tactical Response Team (TRT) in Nothintsila Locality, Ngqeleni, in the Eastern Cape.
The incident occurred on Monday, 2 November 2026, at approximately 10:15.
According to police, TRT members attached to the Mthatha unit received information about three men who were allegedly involved in extortion activities in the area. The suspects were reportedly collecting money from local businesses and shops.
The officers were travelling along the Nothintsila gravel road when they encountered three men who allegedly matched the description of the suspected extortionists.
Police members stopped their vehicles and approached the men. However, the situation escalated when the suspects allegedly opened fire on the officers, prompting members of the Tactical Response Team to return fire.
All three suspects sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the exchange. No police officers were injured in the shooting.
Following the incident, police recovered three pistols believed to have belonged to the suspects. All three firearms reportedly had their serial numbers filed off.
The identities of the deceased men have not yet been established.
Cases relating to attempted murder and the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition have been opened as part of the investigation.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) was also summoned to the scene. This is in accordance with legislation requiring the directorate to investigate deaths resulting from police action.
Police are appealing to members of the public who may have information about the identities of the deceased or the alleged extortion activities in Nothintsila and surrounding areas to come forward.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing.
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