An Eastern Cape traditional leader was shot dead in Mthatha on Wednesday afternoon.
Nkosi Sakhumzi Sakhi Dalinzolo Mareke, who is the headman of Mandela Park in Mthatha West, was shot dead near the Embassy not far from the offices of the police National Intervention Unit.
Mareke recently defended himself against allegations of extortion related to protection fees that have rocked Mthatha and schools in the Mthatha West villages.
His younger brother, Sicelo, confirmed his death.
“Yes it is him, he has been shot dead near the Embassy,” Sicelo said.
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Lt-Col Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed Mareke, 42, and two other people were fatally shot during a shoot-out at about 4.30pm. A policeman was also wounded.
“In one of the attempts to suppress criminal activities at Mthatha, members attached to the National Intervention Unit (NIU) were involved in a disruptive operation at Mthatha West. On completion of the operation, members proceeded to their unit premises at the Embassy building in Mthatha. On their way, they noticed that they were being followed by two vehicles, a Nissan Qashqai and a Toyota Fortuner,” Mawisa said.
“As members arrived at the premises, the two suspicious vehicles stopped behind them, and the three men armed with firearms alighted and immediately opened fire. Police retaliated, fatally wounding the three men.
“One police officer, a warrant officer in his 40s, sustained a gunshot wound and was rushed to the hospital for medical attention.”
Three firearms with ammunition were recovered from the scene.
Eastern Cape commissioner Lt-Gen Nomthetheleli Mene said the “despicable attack” on police highlighted the need for officers to always be alert and “operationally ready”.
DispatchLIVE/TimesLIVE
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