At approximately 05h30 this morning, the Marshall Security Emergency Dispatch Centre received a report via a community WhatsApp Crime Alert group from a member of the public who observed a male suspect carrying a tyre and hubcaps in the Morningside area. The items were suspected to be stolen.
Multiple Armed Response Officers were immediately dispatched, and a detailed description of the suspect was circulated. The suspect was soon spotted on First Avenue near a well-known race course.
Upon noticing officers, the suspect dropped the items and fled on foot, prompting a coordinated pursuit.
Additional Armed Response Officers and members of the Marshall Security Special Operations Team (SOT) moved swiftly to assist. The chase led into a nearby park area where individuals occupying illegal shelters interfered with officers’ efforts, threatening and physically assaulting them in an attempt to prevent the arrest.
Despite the volatile and hostile environment, officers continued the pursuit. The suspect was eventually cornered and, in an attempt to evade arrest, tried to stab one of the responding officers.
In self-defence, the officer discharged his firearm, wounding the suspect. The suspect was immediately apprehended.
With tensions still elevated, additional backup responded and the scene was secured. Members of the Special Operations Team administered first aid to the injured suspect while awaiting the arrival of KZN Provincial Ambulance Services and Durban Central SAPS.
The suspected stolen items were recovered; however, at this stage, it has not yet been established where they were stolen from.
The scene was handed over to SAPS for further investigation and processing. The suspect was transported under police guard to a nearby hospital for further medical treatment.
Officers sustained minor injuries during the confrontation and were attended to accordingly.
This incident highlights the dangers faced by first responders and the decisive action required when confronted with armed suspects. Marshall Security commends its officers for their courage, discipline, and commitment to protecting the community, even under hostile and life-threatening circumstances.
