At approximately 05h30 this morning, Marshall Security received a report from a member of the public via a community WhatsApp Crime Alert group regarding a male suspect carrying a tyre and hubcaps in the Morningside area. The items were suspected to be stolen.
Armed Response Officers were dispatched and circulated a detailed description of the suspect. The suspect was then spotted on First Avenue, near a race course.
Upon noticing the officers, the suspect fled on foot, initiating a pursuit. Additional Armed Response Officers and members of the Marshall Security Special Operations Team (SOT) assisted.
The chase led into a park area where individuals occupying illegal shelters interfered with officers, threatening and physically assaulting them in an attempt to prevent the arrest.
The suspect was cornered and, while attempting to evade arrest, tried to stab one of the responding officers. The officer then discharged his firearm in self-defence, wounding the suspect, who was subsequently apprehended.
Backup responded to secure the scene. Members of the Special Operations Team provided first aid to the suspect while awaiting the arrival of KZN Provincial Ambulance Services and Durban Central SAPS.
The suspected stolen items were recovered, but the location from which they were stolen remains unknown at this time.
The scene was handed over to SAPS for further investigation. The suspect was transported to a nearby hospital under police guard for medical treatment. Officers sustained minor injuries during the confrontation and received medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did this incident occur?
The incident began at approximately 05h30 this morning.
Where did the pursuit end?
The pursuit ended in a nearby park area.
What happened to the suspect?
The suspect was apprehended after attempting to stab an officer and was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
How might communities and law enforcement work together to prevent similar incidents in the future?
