By Lulama kaSozathini, Image Graphics: Icamagu News
WASBANK, KWAZULU-NATAL — A high-stakes police operation ended in a fatal shootout on Thursday afternoon, 22 May 2025, when two men suspected of multiple cash-in-transit robberies were gunned down near Ladysmith.
According to police, the operation was the result of a sustained intelligence-driven investigation tracking down suspects allegedly linked to no fewer than six violent heists. The robberies took place in KwaDukuza, Verulam, Nyoni, Greytown, Phoenix, and Langslaagte between June 2022 and March 2025.
Acting on a tip-off, law enforcement officers traced the suspects to a house in Wasbank. Upon arrival, officers introduced themselves, but were met with gunfire from within the premises. In the exchange that followed, both suspects were fatally wounded.
One of the deceased, aged 43, was already wanted by authorities and had an outstanding warrant of arrest for possession of explosives and ammunition. Police recovered two firearms at the scene.
No police officers were injured in the shootout.
Provincial police spokespersons praised the swift and strategic operation, reaffirming their commitment to bringing perpetrators of serious and violent crimes to justice. The matter remains under investigation as authorities continue efforts to dismantle armed syndicates targeting high-value security transports.
