Police foils robbery, arrest suspects after shootout

DUTYWA – Police arrested three suspects after they were found in possession of firearms and a hijacked VW Polo in Ngcobo on Thursday, 03 November 2022.

The arrest comes after a robbery that occurred in a business place in Dutywa. It is alleged that three unknown suspects entered a business place and demanded money from the female employee. They took an undisclosed amount of cash and fled the scene with the vehicle of a client that was visiting the business place. They then proceeded on the direction of Ngcobo and Police gave chase and POP and Ngcobo Police members were activated as backup and when at Beyele village Police spotted a vehicle and a shootout ensued between Police and suspect. During the shootout,t a 35-year-old suspect was fatally wounded and two suspects, both 34 years old, were arrested.

On investigation Police recovered two unlicensed firearms, loaded with ammunition. Hijacked vehicle and an undisclosed amount of cash was also recovered.

A case of aggravated robbery, hijacking, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition was opened for investigation. The case of Murder was opened and will be transferred to IPID for further investigation.

The Acting Amathole District Commissioner, Brigadier Ngangema Xakavu appreciated the joint operation between Police and swift response in ensuring that the suspects are behind bars and firearms are confiscated.

Source: South African Police Service