Suspect killed in shootout with police on R61 near Mthatha Airport
A suspect has been killed following a shootout with members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) during an operation on the R61 road near Mthatha Airport on Thursday, 8 January 2026.
According to SAPS, members of the Tactical Response Team (TRT) were deployed after receiving information about a vehicle suspected to be linked to the possession of unlicensed firearms. At about 12:45, police spotted a vehicle matching the description on the R61 between Cicira and Mthatha Airport and proceeded to stop it.
Police spokesperson Nobuntu Gantana said that as officers approached the vehicle to conduct a search, one of the passengers allegedly jumped out and opened fire on the police. Officers returned fire in order to defend themselves and neutralise the threat.
The suspect was injured during the exchange of gunfire. Emergency medical services were called to the scene and later declared the suspect dead.
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), together with other relevant role-players, has been notified and will conduct the necessary investigations into the incident.
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