A notorious gang leader from Inanda, who was wanted in connection with multiple murders and violent crimes, was shot and killed alongside his accomplice during a gunfight with police in Verulam, north of Durban.
Inanda gang leader killed in police shootout
KwaZulu-Natal police confirmed that the operation was part of a targeted intelligence-driven effort to track down the suspect, who had been linked to a series of killings, robberies, and arson attacks across Inanda and KwaMashu.
The dramatic confrontation unfolded on Thursday afternoon after police received credible information that the gang leader and two associates were on their way to Umhlanga to collect drugs and ammunition.
Officers followed the suspects closely as they switched vehicles, eventually cornering them in Cottonlands, Verulam.
As law enforcement approached their car on Vincent Dickinson Road, the suspects opened fire, prompting police to retaliate.
The 22-year-old gang leader and his 27-year-old accomplice were fatally shot in the exchange, while the third suspect managed to escape and is now the subject of an active manhunt.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi commended the officers for their efforts in tracking down one of the province’s most feared criminals.
“The ideal situation would have been for police to arrest the suspect alive so that he could face trial and bring closure to his victims’ families. Unfortunately, he chose to engage in a shootout, and in doing so, he determined his own fate,” said Mkhwanazi.
What police recovered and know so far
The slain gang leader had a warrant of arrest for murder and was allegedly responsible for at least 10 killings.
His criminal record included over 20 cases, ranging from attempted murder and robberies to intimidation and arson.
Following the shootout, police recovered a firearm from the gang leader’s possession, while a search of the suspect’s vehicle was still underway.
Authorities believe that the group was involved in the illegal drug trade, and further investigations will determine the extent of their operations.
Police are now pursuing the escaped suspect, who is believed to be armed and dangerous.
Residents of Inanda and surrounding areas have reportedly lived in fear of the gang’s activities, with the leader having built a reputation for ruthless violence and intimidation.
Law enforcement has vowed to continue cracking down on gang-related crimes in the province, with police intensifying operations targeting drug syndicates and criminal networks that have terrorised communities.