Suspected extortionist killed in police shootout in Mthatha


A 35-year-old suspected extortionist has been shot and killed by police during a police operation that included the Tactical Response Team in Mthatha, in the Eastern Cape.

Police say the operation started in the early hours of the morning targeting locations linked to the possession of illegal firearms and ammunition. The deceased is the brother of alleged extortionist, Dalinzolo Mareke, who was also shot and killed by police earlier this year

Police Spokesperson, Nobuntu Gantana, says police went to the suspect’s home at Mandela Park.

“During the execution of a search at a second address in Mandela Park, police were met with immediate and hostile gunfire from a male occupant upon gaining entry,” says Gantana.

She says a shootout ensued, resulting in the male suspect, approximately 35 years old, sustaining fatal injuries.

“He was declared deceased on the scene by Emergency Medical Services personnel. No SAPS members or bystanders were injured during this incident,” he adds.

Gantana says a 9mm pistol with ammunition was recovered at the scene and will undergo ballistic testing.