Ntuzuma, KZN – A prisoner allegedly overpowered a police officer and seized a firearm at the Ntuzuma SAPS in Ntuzuma, KwaZulu-Natal, this morning (Monday), triggering a tense standoff and exchange of gunfire that lasted approximately one hour.
Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA) received a call for assistance from a SAPS official stationed at the facility at approximately 08:34, requesting urgent medical assistance. It was reported that a prisoner overpowered a police officer inside the holding cells and deprived the officer of a firearm.
Multiple shots were fired during the incident while several police officers remained trapped inside a building housing the holding cells. Reaction Officers and RUSA Paramedics were immediately mobilised to assist, while the RUSA Robinson R44 Helicopter lifted off to provide aerial support in the event the suspect attempted to flee the facility.
On arrival, Reaction Officers established that the suspect had been neutralised during a shootout with police. It was alleged that the suspect had been killed, however this could not be immediately confirmed.
Approximately six police officers who were trapped inside the building were later freed. Some sustained minor injuries.
The scene remains active and is currently (09:36) being processed by authorities. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
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