In the early hours of today, 28 July 2023, a 31-year-old suspect was fatally shot at KwaCaluza in Pietermaritzburg during an intelligence driven operation by the Pietermaritzburg based Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, National Intervention Unit, Mayville and Pietermaritzburg police.
Four suspects aged between 25 and 32 were arrested and they will appear in the Pietermaritzburg Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 31 July 2023.
On 24 July 2023, a police officer from Pietermaritzburg was inside the pharmacy in the Pietermaritzburg CBD when unknown gunmen entered to allegedly rob the pharmacy. An undisclosed amount of cash was taken, and a police officer was robbed of his firearm, wallet and cellphone.
The incident was reported to the police which prompted the Hawks’ attention. A suspect who was driving a vehicle that was allegedly used during the robbery was arrested later that night. An information led the team to two premises at KwaCaluza where a suspect in one of the premises fired shots towards the police when he was instructed to open and a shootout led to his demise. A pistol and the police officer’s belongings were recovered. Police proceeded to other premises where three men were arrested and the police firearm was found.
The suspects are facing charges of business robbery, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition. The investigation is continuing.