A traditional leader from Mthatha West in the Eastern Cape has been shot dead in a shootout with the police this afternoon. Chief Sakhumczi Dalinzolo Mareke was allegedly involved in the extortion of businesses in the Mthatha, Eastern Cape, an allegation he has denied.

ACCUSED OF EXTORTION 

Mareke was implicated by Abathembu King Buyelekhaya Dalindyebo last month during a community meeting after schools in the area were closed due to alleged demands for protection fees. Dalindyebo also accused Mareke of being a self-appointed chief he doesn't recognise. Two weeks ago, Mareke threatened to sue Dalindyebo and asked community members to contribute R100 per household for legal fees. Talking to the community, he said, "The King attacked me in front of everyone; you didn't defend me or the other chiefs. Now, I'm asking each household to pay R100 so we can hire lawyers to take the King to court over what he said.'

SHOT DEAD

Lieutenant Colonel Siphokazi Mawisa confirmed the shooting. She said three armed suspects were fatally shot and one police officer was injured following a shootout at the National Intervention Unit in Mthatha at around 4:30 pm. "A formal police statement will follow," she said. Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, Contralesa secretary-general Zolani Mkiva said that they were aware that Chief Mareke was shot dead because of his involvement in the extortion scheme. "We are unaware of the allegations that Chief Dalinzolo Mareke was involved in extortion around Mthatha West but are still gathering the facts," Mkiva said. 

 *This is a developing story