Three robbery suspects killed in Newlands West police shootout after armed tavern heist

Three suspects were shot dead during a shootout with police in Newlands West after the held up and robbed a local tavern owner on Tuesday evening.

According to a statement by SAPS in KwaZulu-Natal, police in Newlands East responded to a complaint of business robbery in the Honeyrich area of Newlands West.

“Upon arrival, officers were informed that the owner of a tavern was locking up when five males approached him at gunpoint.

They robbed him of cellphones, alcohol and an undisclosed amount of money,” said SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza.

The suspects allegedly fled the scene in a white Toyota Etios. Police conducted patrols in search of the suspects and later spotted a vehicle matching the description of the one involved in the robbery.

Officers activated their sirens and blue lights in an attempt to stop the vehicle, but it failed to comply.

After a brief pursuit, the suspects’ vehicle came to an abrupt halt.

"The occupants alighted the vehicle and began firing shots at the police.

"Police returned fire, during which three suspects were fatally wounded, while two fled into nearby bushes,” Magwaza added.

Police recovered a 9mm pistol, cellphones, bottles of alcohol and an undisclosed amount of money.

Charges of business robbery, attempted murder and possession of an unlicensed firearm have been opened.

Investigations are ongoing, and police are searching for the two suspects who fled on foot.

DAILY NEWS