KZN Cops Kill Two in Hostel Hijack Gunfight

Two men were killed in a shootout with police at the Glebelands Hostel in Umlazi on Monday night. KwaZulu-Natal police confirmed the fatal confrontation occurred during a targeted operation.

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza, officers were tracking suspects connected to a recent hijacking in Harding. The incident involved a van being taken by five armed men on Friday, September 19, 2025. One suspect in the hijacking case had already been arrested, prompting the search for the remaining individuals.

Police Operation Triggers Hostel Shootout

Authorities received intelligence that one of the wanted suspects was hiding at the Glebelands Hostel. An operation was immediately planned and executed on Monday night. When officers arrived at the specific room, they announced their presence.

The occupants responded by opening fire on the police members. A gun battle ensued, resulting in two suspects, aged 27 and 30, being fatally wounded. The police recovered two unlicensed firearms and six rounds of ammunition from the scene following the exchange.

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Weapons Recovered for Ballistic Testing

Lieutenant Colonel Magwaza stated that investigations into the incident are ongoing. The recovered firearms will undergo ballistic testing to determine if they were used in other criminal activities. This procedure is standard for weapons seized under such circumstances.

The Glebelands Hostel has a long-standing reputation for violent crimes and political killings. Police frequently conduct operations in this area to combat persistent criminal activity. This latest incident underscores the ongoing security challenges faced at the hostel.