Suspect shot dead in police shoot-out after Qonce robbery, three others arrested

Police shot dead a suspect and injured another during an operation linked to a robbery in Qonce, Eastern Cape, on Saturday, with three other suspects arrested.

One suspect was shot dead and another injured during a shootout with police in Zwelitsha, Eastern Cape, on Saturday, following a robbery at a local store in Qonce.

The shooting occurred at about 1pm on Saturday after police received information about the suspects’ whereabouts.

Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana said operational teams tracked the suspects to a location in Zwelitsha following the Qonce robbery.

“Upon arrival, police were met with gunfire when one of the suspects opened fire on them,” Gantana said.

She said police returned fire in self-defence and in accordance with SAPS use-of-force protocols.

Another suspect was injured and taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment under police guard. He remains in custody.

Three additional suspects were arrested at the scene without further incident.

Gantana said the Zwelitsha crime scene remained active as forensic and ballistic investigations continued.

The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), has been notified and will conduct a separate investigation into the fatal shooting, as required by law.

Gantana said five suspects in total were linked to the Qonce robbery: one was killed, one was hospitalised and three remain in police custody.

“The SAPS remains resolute in bringing violent criminals to justice,” she said.

Gantana said further updates are expected as the investigation continues.