One man killed, four arrested after shoot-out in Mitchell’s Plain
One man was killed and four others arrested on charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, attempted murder, and attacking police on Wednesday November 19. Pictured is a police officer arresting a suspect.
Image: Supplied
One man was killed and four others arrested on charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, attempted murder, and attacking police.
Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said officers from the National Intervention Unit were following a Toyota Hilux after receiving information about armed suspects on Wednesday morning, November 19.
When the suspects spotted police on Jakes Gerwel Drive, they opened fire. Police returned fire, killing one man and arresting four others.
An AK47 rifle and two 9mm pistols with ammunition were recovered, and two private vehicles were damaged when the suspects’ vehicle collided with them.
The death of the suspect is under investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). The arrested men, aged 27 to 45, are awaiting their first court appearance.
An AK47 rifle and two 9mm pistols with ammunition were recovered, and two private vehicles were damaged when the suspects’ vehicle collided with them.
Image: Supplied
Ridwaan Nero, coordinator of Westgate Neighbourhood Watch, said: “It’s important to work with the police to reduce crime. This morning’s incident seemed planned. Residents thought it was a robbery, but we waited for official information before reporting it.”
Zoraya Du Plessis, vice-chair of Sector 5 sub-Forum for areas of Rondevlei, Colorado Park, and Wildhood), said she was shaken by the incident.
“I usually walk on that road at this time. I heard what sounded like firecrackers close by. My son also noticed it. Roads were backed up when I arrived at the scene, and the community acknowledged the incident. We thank SAPS for their work.”
Michael Jacobs, chairperson of Lentegeur Community Police Forum, said: “The National Intervention Unit spotted armed suspects near Samora Machel, which led to a chase and shootout near Westgate Mall on Morgenster Drive. Three suspects were arrested, one killed, and three firearms recovered. We commend the police for acting swiftly and removing guns from the streets.”