Five young suspects killed in Chatsworth police shootout

Developing Story: Five young suspects killed in Chatsworth shootout with police

KwaZulu-Natal police have confirmed that five suspects, the youngest just 17 years old and the oldest in their early 20s, were fatally shot during a dramatic gun battle with officers in Chatsworth, south of Durban.

The incident unfolded in the early hours of Monday morning in an informal settlement known as Pumphouse. Residents reported being woken up by heavy gunfire as police engaged with suspects allegedly linked to a series of serious crimes, including murder, armed robbery, stock theft, and extortion.

Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the operation was intelligence-driven. When officers approached the shack where the suspects were hiding, they were met with gunfire. Police returned fire, killing all five suspects. No officers were injured in the exchange.

READ: Five suspects killed in Chatsworth shootout with KZN police

Young suspects involved

KwaZulu-Natal Deputy Police Commissioner Major General Pumelele Pome confirmed that the group was made up of very young men. “The youngest of the suspects is 17 years old and the oldest is in the early 20s. These are young kids who unfortunately chose to involve themselves in criminal activities,” she said.

Among the deceased was also a foreign national. Police confirmed the recovery of multiple firearms at the scene, including a homemade gun commonly used in township crime.

Why informal settlements?

According to police, suspects often choose informal settlements as hideouts because of their dense population and maze-like structure, which makes it difficult for law enforcement to track them down without risking civilian crossfire.

The crime scene remained active by mid-morning, with forensic teams continuing to process evidence. Community members in Chatsworth expressed shock at the ages of the suspects, describing the shootout as both frightening and tragic.

Pattern of deadly clashes

The incident follows a string of police shootouts in KwaZulu-Natal. Just last month, two suspects linked to the murder of a police officer were killed during a gun battle with police in Inanda.

READ: Four nine-year-old boys arrested for burglary spree in KZN

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi has been praised for his decisive stance against violent crime in the province, with many crediting his leadership for boosting police morale and community trust.

This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.