BUTTERWORTH, SOUTH AFRICA – A dramatic shootout unfolded in the Eastern Cape, leaving six suspects dead after a confrontation with police. The incident occurred along the N2 highway in the Nagazi area of Butterworth. The suspects, reportedly heavily armed, were intercepted while traveling from an undisclosed location.
The situation escalated when law enforcement attempted to stop the suspects’ vehicles, leading to a high-speed chase. In the ensuing chaos, one of the suspects’ vehicles veered off the road and plunged into a nearby river. Police diving units are currently combing the waters in search of additional bodies.
Provincial Police Commissioner General shared that the suspects were on the run and had been under police radar for their alleged involvement in a series of crimes. According to a senior police official who preferred to remain anonymous, the group was returning from a meeting when they encountered the police.
As officers attempted to halt the suspects, the situation quickly deteriorated. The suspects opened fire, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. In the melee, two suspect vehicles collided with police cars. The confrontation resulted in three suspects being fatally shot in each of the two vehicles involved.
The crime scene remains active, with police maintaining a strong presence. As night fell, the area was still under investigation, with law enforcement working diligently to piece together the events that transpired.
The identities of the deceased suspects have yet to be confirmed, and authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if more individuals were involved. The swift response by police was praised, especially given the tip-off that alerted them to the armed suspects.
Residents of Butterworth are grappling with the aftermath of the shootout, as police continue their search efforts in the river. The community remains on edge, awaiting further updates from law enforcement.
The Eastern Cape police are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward, as they work to conclude their investigation and ensure the safety of the community.