Three armed robbery suspects were killed in a shootout with Eastern Cape police after they attempted to rob a Qumbu store on Tuesday.
The sleepy town turned into a war zone with prolonged ringing gunfire ringing out in the congested CBD from 9.30am, leaving local residents fearing for the lives of staff and shoppers.
Videos of the dramatic shootout, showing the throwing of stun grenades and the police tactical approach entering China Mall, where robbery was in progress, was widely shared on social media.
Police provincial commissioner Lt Gen Nomthetheleli Mene commended the swift actions of Qumbu police and the tactical response team (TRT) “in ensuring that criminals do not have the upper hand after a shootout ensued between police and armed robbers .”
Three suspects, aged between 32 and 40, were fatally wounded while the fourth suspect, aged 48, surrendered to police.
Police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu said one police officer sustained a bullet graze to his left leg.
“About four armed men entered a shop in Main Street, Qumbu and held the employees and customers at gunpoint before demanding money. The owner of the shop was assaulted with a hammer after which more money was taken from the tills.
“SAPS Qumbu members immediately responded.
“As they approached the entrance of the shop, they were met with a hail of bullets coming from the inside. TRT members arrived as backup and the retaliation between police and the suspects continued,” Naidu said.
Police are investigating cases of attempted murder; illegal possession of firearms and ammunition; inquest and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
The arrested suspect is expected to appear in court soon.
Mene said: “We will not share our space nor will we have any mercy on criminals as we stamp the authority of the state. Criminals are warned that their actions have serious consequences … We will not hesitate to defend ourselves and the lives of our citizens.’
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