By Annisa Essack

02:06:2021

A shoot out in Fairfield Avenue area in Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, on Tuesday afternoon left seven suspected gang members dead. Police Minister Bheki Cele, who was at the scene, said that among the deceased was the gang leader terrorising the city, carrying out hits in and around Imbali.

He was also one of the prisoners who escaped in Pietermaritzburg in April during a hijacking as they were transported to court.

Minister Cele, who arrived at the scene at 18:40, addressed the media outside the premises where the incident occurred. According to the police chief, the gang lived a high life, as expensive liquor, a large television screen, and cars were found on the property. The police also found guns, among which were AK47s.

Thembeka Mbele, a police spokesperson, said they had received a tip-off that the gang had been living at the house since May. On noticing the police, they opened fire, to which the police responded. Two women were also among the dead.

Cele said that more work needed to be done to smoke out the larger syndicate in the city.

No police or members of the security teams in attendance were injured in the dramatic shoot out.