Cape Town – Approximately 20 heavily armed men are on the run following a failed cash-in-transit heist in Emalahleni, Mpumalanga on Monday.
The robbers attacked a cash van along along Kriel Road in Witbank, stopping it forcefully and holding the guards at gunpoint.
“It is further reported that the suspects were driving in a convoy of vehicles, three Ford Rangers (two silver and one white) as well as a white Toyota Hilux.
“They forcefully stopped the cash van and after subjecting the guards at gunpoint, they detonated some explosives and managed to open one of the cash boxes inside the van.
“Members from Witbank Visible Policing were patrolling near the vicinity to combat any possible crime threats. As a result, after realising that the guards were under attack, members swiftly responded within minutes.
#sapsMP A case of #CITRobbery, attempted murder and contravention of the Explosives Act opened after a group of about 20 heavily armed suspects pounced on security guards who were driving in a cash van along Kriel Road in Witbank last night. Suspects sought #TrioCrimes #CrimeStop… pic.twitter.com/UU3kAxJ3yk
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) June 27, 2023
“Upon arrival at the scene, the men and women in blue were challenged into a shootout with the suspects for several minutes. The engagement was too heavy for the suspects who realised that the members were not backing down. They had no choice but fled the scene in their vehicles,” police spokjesperson Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said.
While no police officers were injured, one security guard sustained serious injuries from the blast and was hospitalised, he said.
The police are investigating the incident and have opened cases of cash-in-transit robbery, attempted murder, and contravention of the Explosives Act.
No arrests have been made so far.
The police commissioner commended the swift response and bravery displayed by law enforcement officials and emphasised the commitment to maintaining a strong presence and preventing criminal activities in the province.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
