Firearms and ammo seized after shootout

A cache of weapons and ammunition was recovered during the early hours of Monday morning July 3, when members of the Umlazi K9 South African Police Services Unit came under fire while patrolling in the area.

Members of the unit who were on patrol in Umlazi when they noticed a vehicle which was being sought by police. The officers put on their blue lights and tried to stop the vehicle that had two occupants in it.

SAPS spokesperson Captain Carmen Rhynes said the driver of the vehicle failed to stop, drove towards the Uganda development homes and one of those in the car opened fire on the officer.

“They drove off with the police in pursuit when suddenly one suspected got out of the vehicle and started shooting at the police.

“The two police officers immediately exited from the police vehicle and returned fire. The suspects continued shooting, targeting the police vehicle. The police officers responded with professional tactical engagements while covering each other. Suspects who used high calibre rifles, then retreated and fled to the main road. The SAPS K9 Unit members recovered several firearms in the wanted vehicle and an undisclosed amount of ammunition,” said Captain Rhynes.

eThekwini District Commissioner Major General MV Kheswa commended the officers for their brave approach and success in removing the seven unlicensed firearms “from the hands of serious criminals”.

“Let’s continue to remain fierce in our fight against crime towards a safer communities for all. All the recovered firearms will be subjected to a ballistic test to determine whether they can be linked to other serious crimes,” said Major-General Kheswa.