South Africa saw three separate cash-in-transit heists in a single day, with criminals making off with an undisclosed amount of money in attacks reported in Pretoria, Soweto, and Durban. The robberies all took place on Wednesday, 4 March, and police are now searching for the suspects involved.
Cash Van Targeted in Silverton, Pretoria
The first incident happened early Wednesday morning on Pretoria Road in Silverton, east of Tshwane.
According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, officers responded to reports of a cash-in-transit robbery at the scene. Reports indicate that the armoured cash van was rammed by a silver Toyota Prado, which later caught fire.
After forcing the vehicle to stop, the suspects allegedly grabbed an undisclosed amount of money before fleeing the scene.
Police say the group escaped using a white Ford Ranger and a black BMW. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the Silverton robbery.
Armed Robbery in Dobsonville, Soweto
A second cash-in-transit heist was reported later in Dobsonville, Soweto. Nevhuhulwi said the suspects used a Mercedes-Benz vehicle to ram the cash van on Freedom Road.
The attackers reportedly forced the driver and two crew members out of the armoured vehicle at gunpoint. The victims were then assaulted before the robbers detonated explosives on the cash van.
Witnesses also reported that the suspects fired multiple gunshots during the robbery. The suspects fled with cash using a silver-grey Volvo and a dark brown BMW X5.
Guards Shot During Durban Heist
The third incident occurred in KwaZulu-Natal, where a cash-in-transit vehicle was attacked on the N2 southbound near the NPC Cement Factory, south of Durban. Emergency services rushed to the scene after receiving reports of gunfire and an explosion.
Paramedics described the situation as chaotic when they arrived. Two security guards had been shot multiple times during the attack.
One guard suffered critical injuries and had to be airlifted to the hospital by a Netcare 911 helicopter for urgent treatment. The second guard was seriously injured and was stabilised at the scene before being transported to the hospital.
Witnesses reported hearing dozens of gunshots followed by a loud explosion during the robbery. Police believe the suspects used explosives to damage the armoured vehicle before escaping.
Police Searching for Suspects
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said authorities are now searching for at least eight suspects believed to be involved in the Durban robbery.
According to police reports, the suspects were travelling in two vehicles when they ambushed the cash delivery truck on the highway.
The gunmen opened fire on the vehicle, forcing it to stop before stealing several bags of money. Despite the violent attack, police confirmed that the safe inside the vehicle remained intact.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are currently investigating all three robberies. Police are urging anyone who may have information about the suspects to contact their nearest police station or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Cash-in-transit robberies remain a serious concern in South Africa, with criminals often using explosives, high-powered weapons, and multiple vehicles to carry out the attacks. Wednesday’s incidents highlight just how coordinated and dangerous these crimes can be.
Source: Daily Sun
