The suspects believed to be in their 30s, were connected to a case of carjacking reported in Pinetown, where a motorist was robbed of his vehicle yesterday morning.

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) police spokesperson, Colonel Thembeka Mbele said Durban K9 Unit members were investigating the case of a stolen vehicle which was used in carjackings and robberies.

The vehicle was later spotted on the M7 highway towards the Bellair area.

“A chase then ensued between the suspects and the police towards the Malvern area.”

“The suspects’ vehicle crashed into a concrete light pole and brick wall and overturned on Woodlands Avenue in Bellair while the suspects fired shots at the police,” said Mbele.

She said the five suspects were declared dead at the scene following a shootout with the police.

Three unlicensed firearms with six rounds of ammunition were found with the deceased suspects.

“The suspects were positively linked to a business robbery case that was committed yesterday in Umbilo where a vehicle and other belongings were taken from the business premises.”

Preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle was taken during a house robbery in Newlands East in June 2020.

KZN Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Khombinkosi Jula said it was disturbing to see police officers being attacked while performing their duties.

“The police officers will defend themselves when they come under attack. I am glad that no injuries were sustained by the team,” said Jula.