Two notorious criminals killed in Limpopo shootout with police

Two notorious criminals wanted for a series of violent crimes across Limpopo, were fatally shot during a gun battle with police in Burgersfort. Authorities had been tracking the suspects, who were linked to multiple cases, including murder, rape, house robbery, and kidnapping.

Among their most serious offences was the killing of a Limpopo Highway Patrol Sergeant, from whom they stole three rifles. Reports indicate that the duo terrorised communities in Lebowakgomo, Magatle, Sekhukhune, and Mankweng, leaving a trail of violence in their wake.

Limpopo Police Commissioner General Thembi Hadebe confirmed intelligence-led operations helped law enforcement locate the suspects near Ga-Mampuru on the R555.

“The suspects have been terrorising community members in the areas, and upon being cornered by the police, they started shooting at them, the police then retaliated resulting in the death of the suspects,’ she said.

Gun Battle between two criminals and police ends in fatal shootings

When officers cornered the suspects, they responded with gunfire, prompting police to retaliate. One of the men, believed to be between 30 and 35 years old, was shot and killed on the spot. Police recovered a pistol and six rounds of ammunition from his possession.

His accomplice fled the scene carrying a rifle, but officers pursued him. Upon being confronted, he also opened fire, leading to another exchange of gunfire. Police fatally shot him, ending his reign of terror.

The second suspect, estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old, was found with an R5 rifle, a 9mm pistol, three live rounds of ammunition, and 12 stolen cell phones. Authorities later identified him as a fugitive who had escaped from the Lebowakgomo Magistrate Court on 17 March 2023 while facing multiple charges, including rape and house robbery.

Community Assistance Led to Breakthrough

The police credited community members for helping track down the criminals.

“We appreciate everyone, including the community members, for providing the police with positive information that resulted in the successful tracking and tracing of the most wanted suspects,” said Hadebe.

Officers also recovered a stolen rifle linked to several violent crimes in the Capricorn and Sekhukhune districts. Investigations into the incident are ongoing as police work to determine if the suspects were involved in additional criminal activities.

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