1 person dies after cash-in-transit robbery on the N2 highway Durban! A violent cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery on the N2 highway in Durban has left one person dead and several others injured. The brazen attack took place on Tuesday morning, sending shockwaves through the community.
Robbery on the N2 Highway
The CIT van, which was targeted in the heist, was found lying on its roof near the NPC Cement factory, just after Higginson Highway.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a group of heavily armed men attack the security guards transporting cash. The robbers allegedly assaulted the guards, disarmed them, and then made off with an undisclosed amount of money.
Eyewitness Accounts and Chaos at the Scene
According to bystanders, the attack was well-coordinated, with the assailants appearing to have a clear plan before executing the robbery.
One witness, who was traveling along the N2 at the time, described the terrifying scene:
“I saw a van overturned, and suddenly, there were loud gunshots. People were screaming and running for cover. The robbers were aggressive, hitting the guards and demanding their weapons before escaping.”
The incident caused major traffic disruptions on the highway, as emergency services rushed to the scene to assist the injured.
Multiple Casualties Confirmed
ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garreth Jamieson confirmed that multiple people sustained injuries in different locations due to the gunfire exchange.
“On the actual scene, paramedics treated three security officers for various injuries. They were stabilized on-site before being transported to a nearby hospital.”
However, the violence did not end there. Approximately 500 meters from the primary crime scene, three innocent bystanders traveling on a bus to work were caught in the crossfire.
“The three bus passengers suffered multiple gunshot wounds and had to be rushed to the hospital for further treatment,” Jamieson added.
Another location of the crime scene was identified on the Higginson Highway, where two more individuals had sustained gunshot wounds. The extent of their injuries has not yet been confirmed.
Fatality Confirmed
Authorities have since confirmed that one person lost their life during the attack. It remains unclear whether the deceased was a security guard, bystander, or one of the robbers.
The victim’s identity has not yet been released, pending notification of their family.
Police Launch Manhunt for Suspects
Following the violent heist, law enforcement agencies have launched a massive manhunt for the suspects.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, urging members of the public with any information to come forward.
“We are following all leads to track down these dangerous criminals. We urge anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious to contact the authorities immediately,” a SAPS spokesperson stated.
The police have not yet confirmed how many suspects were involved, but initial reports suggest a well-organized gang carried out the attack.
Growing Concern Over Cash-in-Transit Heists
This latest robbery adds to the rising number of cash-in-transit heists in South Africa, a growing concern for both law enforcement and security companies.
CIT robberies have become increasingly violent, often involving high-caliber weapons and explosives.
Security experts have called for stricter measures to protect guards and cash vans, including:
- Increased police visibility in known CIT hotspots.
- Enhanced security protocols for cash transportation.
- Improved intelligence-sharing between law enforcement and private security firms.
Call for Public Assistance
The SAPS is urging anyone with information about the suspects or getaway vehicle to contact Crime Stop at 08600 10111.
Authorities believe that with the public’s cooperation, they will be able to track down the criminals and prevent further attacks of this nature.
Conclusion
The Durban cash-in-transit heist serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by security personnel and innocent civilians in South Africa. With one life lost and several others injured, the need for urgent intervention in combating CIT robberies has never been greater.
As police continue their investigation and search for the perpetrators, South Africans remain hopeful that justice will be served and those responsible for the violence and chaos will be brought to book.
