Mpumalanga-A group of cattle thieves was caught red-handed in the act but managed to flee after a dramatic confrontation with local police and community members in Mthambothini village under Dr JS Moroka municipality. The incident occurred when the suspects, upon being discovered, abandoned two bakkies and the stolen cattle before escaping into nearby bushes.

In a desperate attempt to evade capture, the suspects opened fire on the police and members of a local community forum committed to fighting rural crime. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the exchange of gunfire.

The suspects remain at large, and police have launched a manhunt to track them down. The abandoned vehicles and recovered cattle are now in police custody as evidence.

Authorities have praised the vigilance of the community and are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice. We speak to councilor Mncedisi Dlhou