Western Cape man shot dead by police

A man was shot dead by police during a car chase in George, Western Cape police said on Sunday.

The man and four others were in a vehicle on Saturday when police approached them, said Captain Bernadine Steyn. A chase ensued when the car sped off.

"The suspects tried several times to push the SA Police Service vehicle of the road," said Steyn.

"...Officers allegedly saw an object that looked like a firearm ....and opened fire." When the vehicle came to a stop, the four occupants -- aged between 23 and 30 -- were arrested.

A fifth person was found dead.

He had sustained a gunshot wound in the head.

A case of murder was being investigated. Some 14 parcels of dagga, which had been flung from the car, was seized by police.

The group was expected to appear in the George Magistrate's Court on Tuesday facing several charges.