A suspect linked to the fatal shooting of a police officer and a subsequent violent crime spree was shot and killed by police during a confrontation in Ngcobo, Eastern Cape, on Saturday night.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape confirmed in a media statement issued by Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana that the suspect was fatally wounded at approximately 22:30 on June 7, 2025. The shooting occurred after police confronted the man, who allegedly opened fire on officers.
The incident began earlier that evening, around 17:45 in Ngqamakhwe, where the suspect allegedly shot and killed a police officer who was on his way to work. According to SAPS, the suspect fled the scene immediately following the attack.
“In the aftermath of the murder, the suspect allegedly embarked on a hijacking spree, stealing five vehicles in succession as he fled,” Brigadier Gantana stated. The suspect reportedly abandoned the final hijacked vehicle upon reaching Ngcobo and continued his flight on foot.
Based on information and intelligence received, police located the suspect in Ngcobo. A confrontation ensued, during which “the suspect opened fire on the members,” said Brigadier Gantana. “In response to the imminent threat, police returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect.”
SAPS confirmed that the deceased suspect is directly linked to multiple crimes, including the murder of a SAPS member in Ngqamakhwe, robbery of a service firearm, the hijacking of five motor vehicles, and attempted murder.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has been informed and will conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s death, in line with standard procedure.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation is leading a comprehensive investigation into both the officer’s murder and the series of hijackings.
Commenting on the incident, Acting Provincial Commissioner of the Eastern Cape, Major General Thandiswa Kupiso, said, “SAPS condemns in the strongest terms the attack on our member and the subsequent violent crime spree. We commend the members involved in the pursuit for their vigilance and swift response, which brought this dangerous situation to an end.”
The SAPS also extended its “deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the murdered police officer,” noting that their thoughts are with them during this difficult time.