An attack on the home of a member of the Anti-Gang Unit (AGU) in Eerste River has left one suspect dead, with the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) investigating the matter. 

The incident took place shortly after midnight on Monday, 19 October 2026, when four suspects allegedly petrol-bombed the officer’s house while he was on patrol. 

According to IPID spokesperson Phaladi Shuping, the officer’s wife contacted him after the attack, prompting him to rush home with colleagues.  

The suspects allegedly attempted to flee in a vehicle, having opened fire on police, and a shootout ensued. 

“The police returned fire while chasing the suspects’ vehicle. They eventually caught them at Breede Street, Silwood Heights,” said Shuping.  

Shuping explained that one suspect attempted to flee on foot after getting out of the vehicle but collapsed a short distance away. He was declared dead at the scene, while the other three suspects were arrested. 

Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed the arrests. 

“We can confirm that three suspects aged 24, 25 and 35 were arrested. Another suspect succumbed to injuries sustained during the arrest.” 

IPID has taken over the investigation into the fatal shooting to establish the circumstances surrounding the death. 

Shuping said an inquest docket has been opened into the suspect’s death, while IPID also investigates the suspects. 

“The arson docket was opened against the deceased and other three suspects,” Shuping said, noting that it is being handled by Kleinvlei detectives.