KZN Police Launch Manhunt After Station Commander Killed In Greytown Shootout

Police in KwaZulu-Natal are searching for suspects who fled after a deadly confrontation with officers on Thursday afternoon. The incident claimed the life of a Lieutenant Colonel who had led the response to a robbery in progress, while another police officer was wounded.

The station commander and her team had responded to reports of a business robbery in Greytown, where a shop owner had been shot and injured and employees were allegedly assaulted. At least 10 suspects reportedly escaped in a Toyota Quantum, prompting police and private security personnel to pursue them.

Station Commander Killed During R33 Road Shootout

The pursuit continued along the R33 towards Msinga, where officers caught up with the suspects. A shootout broke out, during which the suspects allegedly opened fire on the police team and fatally wounded the station commander.

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A police sergeant was also shot in the arm and taken to hospital for urgent medical treatment. Two suspects were shot and killed during the exchange, while another was wounded, arrested and transported to hospital under police guard.

Police Recover Three Firearms As Suspects Escape

Police recovered three firearms from the suspects, including two rifles and a handgun. However, several other suspects managed to evade arrest and reportedly fled into the surrounding mountainous area.

Authorities have since intensified efforts to track down those who escaped. The manhunt is focused on identifying and arresting everyone allegedly involved in the attack.

KZN Police Vow To Bring Station Commander's Killers To Book

Acting KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner Major General Phumelele Makoba condemned the killing and vowed that police would use every available resource to find the remaining suspects.

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“An attack to police officers is an attack to the State and police will use every available resource to trace the suspects. The suspects will know no peace and police hunt them day and night,” Makoba said.

He also conveyed condolences to the family of the slain officer, describing her as a fallen heroine. Makoba said police were determined to ensure justice, adding: “The least we can offer now is justice and we shall find the suspects, dead or alive.”