The Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Maj Gen Vuyisile Ncata has commended the swift and decisive actions of SAPS New Brighton Crime Prevention (CPU) members in apprehending four males suspected of perpetrating repeated crimes in the community. During the altercation with police, three suspects were wounded, and one was fatally shot.
It is alleged that on Thursday,0 9 May 2024 at about 17:25, the CPU members were patrolling along Mbilini Rd in Kwazakele when they noticed a grey Hyundai i20 that was circulated as stolen in Kwadwesi. As they made a U-turn, they noticed the suspects robbing a person in the street. The suspected vehicle drove off with police following closely. When they turned into Stofile Street, police attempted to intercept it however, the driver sped off. Shots were fired at police who returned fire. The driver of the Hyundai i20 lost control and veered off the road. Three suspects sustained gunshot wounds and one was fatally wounded.
Three firearms, five cellphones and the stolen vehicle were recovered. Police are busy probing their possible involvement in other crimes in the metro.
Cases of inquest, attempted murder (x4), possession of suspected stolen property, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition and possession of stolen vehicle against the four suspects (ages between 23 and 33) are under investigation. The three injured suspects are expected to appear in the New Brighton magistrate court soon.
Maj Gen Ncata has iterated that the recovery of the firearms and the seizure of the stolen vehicle highlights the gravity of the threat posed by these criminals. ‘It’s evident that these suspects who were armed, posed a significant danger to our community. I want to applaud the good work of our police officers involved for their bravery and professionalism in the face of danger. Despite being fired upon, they remained steadfast in their commitment to protecting our community. A thorough investigation will be conducted to ensure that these suspects remain behind bars. Our goal is to maintain the trust and confidence of the community we serve while relentlessly pursuing those who seek to harm it.’
