Two suspected armed robbers were shot and killed during a confrontation with police in Clare Estate, Durban, on Wednesday evening following an alleged armed robbery targeting a businessman on Burnwood Road.
According to information from the scene, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) attached to Sydenham SAPS reportedly witnessed the robbery while conducting patrols in the area. Three suspects travelling in a white Kia Picanto allegedly approached and robbed a businessman of cash and cellphones before fleeing the scene.
Police immediately initiated a pursuit as the suspects sped away from Burnwood Road. The chase continued through surrounding roads before the suspects reportedly lost control of their vehicle and crashed along Clare Road in Clare Estate.
It is alleged that two suspects exited the crashed vehicle and attempted to flee on foot while opening fire on pursuing officers. Police returned fire, resulting in both suspects being fatally wounded during the exchange.
A third suspect was arrested at the scene without injury.
Authorities reportedly recovered two firearms following the shootout. No police officers were injured during the incident. Members attached to the Sydenham SAPS Trio Task Team and Sydenham SAPS Crime Prevention Unit were involved in the operation.
The identities and ages of the deceased suspects have not yet been officially released pending further investigation and possible identification by relatives.
Police are expected to investigate charges including armed robbery, attempted murder, and the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition in relation to the incident.
As with all police shootings in South Africa, the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting are expected to be subject to an investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), which oversees cases involving deaths resulting from police action.
The crime scene remained active for several hours as forensic investigators documented evidence and processed the crashed vehicle. Traffic movement in parts of Clare Road was reportedly affected while police conducted investigations.
Police have not yet confirmed whether the suspects may be linked to other armed robberies reported in the Durban area.
Investigations are ongoing.
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