Cop chase of car thieves ends in crash, arrests

One crime suspect died and two others were injured after a car chase that involved a shoot-out with police in Howick, KwaZulu-Natal.

“Last night (Thursday), Pietermaritzburg Flying Squad and K9 unit were alerted about three suspects, who were allegedly involved in theft of motor vehicles in the Howick and Town Hill areas,” said police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Thulani Zwane.

“While conducting their observations along the main routes, they [police] spotted a suspect vehicle [matching] the same description given to them, with three occupants. The members attempted to pull over the said vehicle but it sped off,” said Zwane.

“Police officers gave chase and a shoot-out ensued,” he said.

Zwane said the fleeing suspects had crashed their car into another vehicle. As a result of the collision, the getaway car overturned.

“Police officers managed to apprehend two suspects, who had gunshot wounds. The third suspect died at the scene.

“Car jamming devices and a 9mm pistol were recovered from the vehicle,” said Zwane.

He said two suspects were now under police guard in hospital.

Zwane said the arrested pair will be charged with attempted murder, possession of car-breaking implements, reckless and negligence driving and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. – ANA