2 guards wounded in cash heist on KZN’s N2 highway! On Monday night, a cash-in-transit heist on the N2 northbound, just before Higginson Highway, left two security guards injured.
The crime scene was marked by violence, gunfire, and a subsequent looting frenzy as members of the public seized items from the wrecked cash vehicle.
Garrith Jamieson of ALS Paramedics reported that emergency responders found the heavily damaged cash-carrying vehicle in the emergency lane, and two security guards requiring urgent medical care.
Paramedics’ Response and Injury Details
Jamieson confirmed that both security guards had sustained moderate injuries, including gunshot wounds and additional assault injuries. Emergency responders worked quickly to stabilize the men, with Advanced Life Support Paramedics providing immediate care on-site.
“The two officers were stabilized at the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital for the further care they required,” Jamieson said.
Given the severity of the incident, the roadway had to be closed temporarily to allow police investigators to examine the crime scene and collect vital evidence.
Public Looting Amid Chaos
In the chaotic aftermath of the attack, members of the public were seen looting the damaged cash vehicle. This unfortunate incident highlights the dangerous aftermath of such heists, where both lives and public order are at risk. Authorities have expressed concern over public looting at crime scenes, emphasizing the need for public cooperation to preserve evidence and ensure the safety of all involved.
Separate Arrest Made in April Cash Heist Case
In an unrelated case, police in Stellenbosch made significant progress in an April cash-in-transit robbery investigation, apprehending a suspect connected to that incident. A 42-year-old man, identified as Mandla Jack, was arrested for his involvement in a violent heist at a Stellenbosch petrol station earlier this year.
Details of April Heist at Stellenbosch Petrol Station
Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Siyabulela Vukubi, reported that Jack allegedly ambushed security guards while they were collecting cash at the station. According to Vukubi, the crewman was inside the station collecting cash when suspects approached him from behind, brandishing a gun and demanding he surrender his service pistol and ammunition.
The suspects then ordered the guard to hand over a cash safe. However, the cash within the cross-pavement carrier box had already been secured in the armoured vehicle’s drop safe. The suspects escaped the scene in a white VW Polo with false number plates.
Investigative Breakthrough by Hawks
The Hawks’ National Priority Violent Crime team launched a detailed investigation following the robbery, eventually linking Jack to the crime. He was arrested and has since made his initial court appearance, with his case remanded to November 7 for a bail application. Until then, Jack remains in police custody.
Rising Cash-In-Transit Crimes: A Threat to Public Safety
South Africa has been facing a wave of cash-in-transit robberies, which have become a major public safety concern. The daring and often violent nature of these heists threatens not only security personnel but also bystanders, who are sometimes drawn to crime scenes as witnesses or opportunistic looters. Authorities are increasing their efforts to curb this rise in crime, with specialized teams like the Hawks targeting organized groups responsible for such heists.
Public Awareness and Safety Measures
Police have urged members of the public to avoid crime scenes, emphasizing that interfering with evidence can hinder investigations and potentially put their own safety at risk.
Authorities continue to appeal for public cooperation in reporting suspicious behavior and steering clear of crime scenes.
As investigations into both incidents proceed, the National Priority Violent Crime team and local police forces are determined to bring those responsible to justice. Authorities continue to monitor cash-in-transit crimes and implement enhanced measures to protect security personnel and the public.
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The television series Shaka iLembe dominated the South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs) this year, making history by securing a record-breaking 12 awards.
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