Two cops die in prison escape shootout
A manhunt is now on for the escaped suspect, who fled the scene and has not been sighted since.
TWO policemen died on Thursday night following a shootout between with two men making a desperate escape bid from the holding cells of the Nyoni SAPS station near Mandini on the same afternoon.
Warrant Officers Siza Nyandeni (56) and Bhekinkosi Gumede (48) were involved in a struggle with a 23-year-old suspect while visiting the holding cells.
According to KZN SAPS spokesperson Major Thulani Zwane the officers were checking the cells at around 5pm when one of the men was overpowered by a detainee, who managed to take his firearm.
‘He opened fire at the officers and the other member then returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect.
‘A second suspect managed to escape.
‘The prisoners were in custody for a number of robberies in the area,’ said Major Zwane.
‘The firearm taken from the officer was recovered still in the possession of the deceased suspect.’
Both officers were taken to hospital for medical attention, having sustained gunshot wounds to the face and neck as well as the chest and abdomen respectively.
Sadly, they died in hospital hours after being seen by doctors.
