Suspect in Mount Edgecombe ambush shot dead in Inanda during police operation

A suspect wanted in the April 30 ambush that killed two Crime Intelligence officers in Mount Edgecombe was fatally shot during a police operation in Inanda, police said on Friday. A member of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Special Task Force was injured during the operation.

Police operation in Inanda

Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said officers were still at the scene in Inanda. One suspect was shot and killed and a Special Task Force member sustained injuries during the morning operation.

Link to Mount Edgecombe ambush

The Inanda operation follows the ambush and shooting of two Crime Intelligence members in Mount Edgecombe on April 30. The two officers were travelling in an unmarked state vehicle when unknown gunmen opened fire.

Captain Louis Nel died at the scene and Sergeant Mandla Khuzwayo later died in hospital. The dramatic shooting in Mount Edgecombe was captured on CCTV footage.

Emergency response at the original scene

According to IOL, the officers were travelling along Flanders Drive when they came under attack. KZN VIP Emergency Medical Services responded alongside security partners; their spokesperson, Gareth Naidoo, said they found a vehicle “riddled with bullet holes and two injured officers.”

Investigation and next steps

Police have not released further details about the Inanda operation. Authorities remain on site as investigations continue.