READ: Two Suspects Killed in Qonce Shootout Following Vehicle Hijacking

QONCE, EASTERN CAPE – On Sunday, June 15, 2025, two alleged vehicle hijackers were fatally wounded during a confrontation with South African Police Service (SAPS) Tactical Response Teams in Qonce, Eastern Cape.

According to police reports, members of the Tactical Response Teams from OR Tambo and Chris Hani Districts, supported by their Reece team, acted on intelligence regarding a Toyota Quantum minibus hijacked earlier that day in Qonce. The vehicle was located in the Darhabe locality, en route toward Elliotdale. When officers attempted to intercept the minibus, the driver accelerated, leading police on a chase.

The pursuit ended when the vehicle was cornered. As police approached, the two male suspects attempted to flee on foot and opened fire on the officers. In the ensuing shootout, both suspects were fatally shot. Police recovered two 9mm pistols, each with erased serial numbers, one from each suspect.

The incident is part of ongoing efforts by SAPS to combat vehicle hijackings and the proliferation of illegal firearms in the Eastern Cape. No officers were injured during the confrontation.

The case has been referred for further investigation, and authorities are working to establish the identities of the deceased suspects and any potential links to other criminal activities in the region.

Anyone with additional information is urged to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop at 08600 10111.