Breaking: Drug Suspect Arrested After Shootout Near Komani Hospital

A high-risk police operation in Komani on Wednesday night resulted in the arrest of a drug suspect, the seizure of large quantities of drugs, and an ongoing manhunt after a shootout between police and armed suspects near the Komani Hospital traffic circle.

According to confirmed operational information, law enforcement received intelligence that a vehicle transporting drugs was travelling from East London towards Komani. Acting on this information, members from multiple law-enforcement and security units immediately mobilised.

Roadblock and Shootout Near Hospital Circle

A roadblock was set up near the Komani Hospital circle. When South African Police Service (SAPS) members attempted to stop the suspect vehicle, the driver allegedly opened fire, resulting in a shootout.

Following the exchange, the vehicle fled the scene, prompting a high-speed pursuit through parts of Komani.

Vehicle Crashes Near CTM, Suspects Flee

The fleeing vehicle eventually went off the road near the CTM area. Several suspects exited the vehicle and fled into nearby bushes in an attempt to evade arrest.

One suspect was swiftly tracked down and arrested at the scene. The driver, however, managed to escape and remains at large. A manhunt is currently underway to locate and apprehend the suspect.

Drugs and Vehicle Seized

Police confirmed the seizure of the following items:

• Six bags of tik with an estimated street value of R60 000

• One Volkswagen Polo, estimated value R200 000

The scene was processed by the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), and the vehicle was officially impounded for further investigation.

Cases Opened

SAPS confirmed that cases of:

• Attempted murder, and

• Possession of drugs

have been opened for further investigation.

Units Involved in the Operation

The successful operation involved coordinated efforts from multiple units:

• SAPS Komani Crime Intelligence

• SAPS Komani K9 Unit

• SAPS Komani Crime Prevention Unit (CPU)

• Red Guard Security Tactical Response

• Queenstown Rapid Response Unit (QRRU) Armed Reaction

Public Safety Appeal

Residents are also cautioned not to confront armed suspects and to allow law-enforcement officials to handle the situation.