Zuko Komisa

An intelligence-driven operation to track alleged extortionists turned deadly on the R61 between Mthatha and Ngcobo resulting in the deaths of six suspects in a shootout with Eastern Cape police.
According to police spokesperson Nobuntu Gantana, officers were conducting an operation targeting individuals believed to be involved in extortion and murder cases. The suspects’ vehicle was identified on the R61.
When police attempted to stop the vehicle, the occupants allegedly opened fire on the officers. Police returned fire, fatally wounding all six suspects.
#sapsEC Six armed suspects were fatally shot during a shootout with police on R 61 between Mthatha and Ngcobo earlier today, 23/06.
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) June 23, 2025
The intelligence driven operation targeted individuals suspected of involvement in extortion activities within the area. Police stopped the… pic.twitter.com/kUdV85D0Vg
OR Tambo District Commissioner Norman Modishana elaborated on the incident, stating,
“Members of the national task team, taxi violence that are deployed in the area, were following up on information. And this was information about suspects who are involved in extortion and some cases of murder. As they were following up, they identified his vehicle on the R61. As they tried to stop the vehicle, suspects got out of the vehicle, and then they started shooting at the police, and the police retaliated and shot six suspects.”
No police officers were reported injured in the exchange. The scene is currently under investigation.
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has welcomed the swift intervention by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
In a statement, the ATM specifically acknowledged the actions of the National Intervention Unit of the SAPS in identifying Mr. Zola Bishop Yolelo and five other individuals alleged to be involved in extortion and intimidation activities in the area. The party emphasised that “effective policing is essential for maintaining the rule of law and ensuring the safety of our communities.”
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