Johannesburg - Durban police on Monday said the city's most wanted suspect, Sandile Buthelezi, was shot and killed in a dramatic shootout with cops in Ntuzuma township last week.
Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thulani Zwane, said members of Inanda police were conducting their crime prevention duties when they followed up information about their wanted suspect.
Buthelezi was wanted for a string of crimes, including house robberies and house break-ins.
“Police spotted the suspect at the Nhlungwane area in Ntuzuma, and was approached. The suspect allegedly fired shots at them and they fired back, injuring him on his leg in the process,” Zwane said.
“He managed to flee the scene and the police (at the scene) called for a back-up while chasing the suspect. More members came and the suspect was cornered.”
Zwane said Buthelezi allegedly continued shooting towards the police who were returning fire at him.
“He was allegedly shot and killed. The suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed 9mm pistol with three live rounds.”
Zwane said Buthelezi was a 24-year-old criminal commonly known as ‘Msenti’, who was wanted for crimes he committed at KwaMashu, Ntuzuma and Durban.
He said Ntuzuma police have opened a case of attempted murder, possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
KZN acting provincial commissioner, Major General Bhekinkosi Langa, warned the criminals that they rather surrender if approached by the police.
African News Agency