KwaZulu-Natal police said the three suspects killed in a shootout with their members were being sought for numerous murder cases at KwaMsane and Mtubatuba.
The three men were killed on Friday night in the Doringkop area.
Speaking about the incident KZN police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Paul Magwaza said members of Mvala Umgodi received further information from Crime Intelligence on four suspects who were sought for multiple murders.
"Information received was that the suspects were driving in the vicinity of Doringkop.
"A description of the vehicle in which the suspects were traveling was provided, and police officers proceeded towards Doringkop. The car was spotted by police officers driving on Doesburg Road, and when they attempted to stop it the occupants in the vehicle opened fire towards the police.
"A gun battle ensued during the shoot-out three suspects were fatally wounded, however, one suspect fled the scene."
Magwaza said two unlicensed firearms were recovered on the scene.
"Investigations by police officers revealed that the suspects had earlier committed a house robbery, whereby they went to an elderly man's home. They assaulted him and robbed him of his firearm.
"Police looked for the senior citizen during the night but with no luck."
Police said, fortunately, the old man is still alive and opened a case at KwaDukuza Police Station on Saturday.
"The suspects will be profiled to determine if they are not linked to any other cases."
IOL News