Cape Town – The man wounded in a shootout in the Siqala informal settlement, Philippi, Cape Town, has died of his injuries, Western Cape police said on Thursday.

Lt-Col Andre Traut said the man, a suspected robber, died in hospital.

Constable Viwe Mpambane, 34, and Sergeant Mteteleli Damse, 39, were killed and another policeman was wounded during the shootout at 10pm on Wednesday. The wounded officer was in a stable condition.

Police had been searching residences for people wanted in connection with armed robberies in the area.

“Upon entering the dwelling the suspects opened fire at police officers. During a shootout with the robbers, one suspect was wounded and arrested and his 9mm firearm confiscated,” said Traut.

Police believed more people were involved in the shooting, but that they had evaded arrest. The people responsible could regard themselves as “extremely wanted”.

“The Western Cape police management would like to express their sincere condolences to the families of the slain members, as well as to their colleagues,” he said.

Sapa