Suspect linked to 2020 murder of KZN principal shot dead in police battle

JOHANNESBURG - A wanted suspect linked to the 2020 murder of Kwazulu-Natal school principal Zwelabantu Zuma has been shot and killed in a gun battle with police.

The 40-year-old was found at a hostel in Mapetla, Soweto, on Sunday.

Police said he opened fire and officers retaliated fatally wounding him.

The suspect was wanted for several other cases, including carjacking and illegal possession of a firearm.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the man was previously arrested, but the case was withdrawn until new evidence prompted a fresh warrant.

"Two other accused in the case of murder of Mr Zwelabantu Zuma are already serving life sentences, while two others died before being trialled. One suspect is still outstanding on this case, and police are still searching for the remaining suspect."