A 29-year-old suspect who was regarded as the most notorious hitman in the Western Cape, wanted and positively linked to at least ten cases that claimed the lives of 12 victims, was killed during a shootout in Lwandle with police members at around 11pm on Sunday evening.
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The shooting occurred during an integrated takedown operation comprising members of the Provincial Detectives’ Serious and Violent Crimes Investigations, supported by various members attached to specialised units.
According to SAPS provincial spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Malcom Pojie, police followed up on information about the suspect’s whereabouts and traced him down to a premises situated in Lwandle.
‘The members accosted him but on spotting the members, the suspect discharged his firearm in the direction of the police members in an effort to evade arrest,’ said Poije.
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‘The members retaliated and returned fire at which point the suspect was fatally wounded and succumbed to death on the scene. The members found and confiscated a firearm and ammunition which were found in possession of the deceased.’
In addition, the team arrested two accomplices, aged 32 and 36, who were in the company of the deceased.
‘They are also linked to some of the cases in which the deceased is believed to be the kingpin.’
‘The cases they are linked to include a triple murder, a double murder, four murders, two attempted murders of which one was perpetrated against a police member, a business robbery at a guesthouse and the possession of stolen goods belonging to one of their murdered victims.’
‘The two suspects will appear in the local magistrates’ court once charged. They will remain in custody and bail, if applied for, will be opposed. The possibility that more charges could be added against the accused and the deceased suspect, is not excluded.’
Western Cape Police management lauded the members for their endurance and commitment to rid our communities of criminals that have instilled so much fear and terrorised the community for years.
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