Six men, who allegedly tried to rob a butchery, and a bystander have been killed in KwaZulu-Natal.
Police spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele said the men allegedly robbed a butchery in Mtubatuba, northern KwaZulu-Natal, on Friday evening.
"The police officers from Durban Task Force were following them, and there was an exchange of gunfire. Six suspects believed to be in their thirties were declared dead at the scene. A total of three illegal firearms with 31 rounds of ammunition were recovered from the deceased suspects," he added.
A 33-year-old bystander was shot in the leg and was taken to a local clinic, where he later died.
"The suspect's vehicle was recovered and impounded for further investigation. The other suspects who were travelling in three vehicles managed to flee the scene, and they are still being sought by police," said Mbele.
The police are investigating charges of attempted business robbery, attempted murder, and the possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.