16-05-2025
One person killed, another wounded in attempted cash-in-transit heist in Mpumalanga
Two suspected cash-in-transit robbers have been shot - one of them dead - during an attempted robbery.
Police say they were part of a group of gunmen who targeted a cash van.
The rest of the gunmen fled.
Guards shot a suspected cash-in-transit robber dead and wounded another during an attempted heist near White River, Mpumalanga on Thursday.
According to police spokesperson. Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, preliminary reports indicate that an unidentified number of gunmen attacked cash-in-transit guards.
A shootout ensued.
One of the gunmen was shot and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Another was wounded and is receiving medical attention under police guard, according to Mdhluli.
'Two rifles were recovered at the scene, while the Ford Ranger reportedly used by the suspects was later found abandoned in Swalala, near Masoyi. It is important to note that, according to our initial investigations, no money was stolen during this attempted robbery,' said Mdhluli.
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The person who was wounded is expected to appear in court soon.
'We urge anyone with further information regarding the whereabouts of the outstanding suspects or any information relating to this incident to contact the SAPS or report anonymously through Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or send information via the My SPAS app,' Mdhluli added.
Acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, said law enforcement agencies were working collaboratively to combat crime, and added that the strategies put in place were beginning to yield positive results.
'The swift response and professionalism demonstrated by our security partners during this incident are commendable. Our commitment to ensuring the safety of the community remains unwavering, and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring criminals to justice,' said Mkhwanazi.
According to annual crime statistics, during the 2023/24 year, police recorded 211 cash-in-transit heists – a decrease from the 238 recorded in the previous year.
Gauteng had the highest number of incidents (61), followed by the Eastern Cape (50). Mpumalanga recorded 15 cases.
