Brutal Cash-in-Transit Heist Rocks Bushbuckridge, South Africa

Image Source: via X @MDNnewss

Published by Everything ZA News

BUSHBUCKRIDGE, South Africa – A brazen cash-in-transit heist has left Mpumalanga province reeling after a gang of heavily armed suspects targeted a Fidelity Security vehicle in the Mhala area on Saturday afternoon.

The Hawks, a specialized unit of the South African Police Service, are searching for approximately 20 suspects who remain at large following the violent attack.

According to the Hawks, the criminals, traveling in two white and silver Volkswagen Polos, ambushed the Fidelity escort vehicle. In the ensuing shootout, the driver of the escort vehicle sustained injuries and was robbed of two rifles.

The ruthless attackers, all clad in balaclavas, gloves, and bulletproof vests, then turned their attention to the cash van. They fired upon the vehicle before forcing the driver and crew out, shoving them into nearby bushes and stripping them of their firearms.

With chilling efficiency, the suspects detonated explosives twice on the armored cash van, gaining access to an undisclosed amount of money. They then fled the scene towards Dwarsloop, leaving behind a trail of destruction and fear.

“The brutality of this attack is extremely concerning,” said a Hawks spokesperson. “We are appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the apprehension of these dangerous criminals.”

The injured Fidelity security guard is receiving medical treatment. The extent of his injuries remains unknown.

The South African Police Service has launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. Roadblocks have been established, and a forensic investigation is underway at the crime scene.

This brazen heist underscores the ongoing challenge of cash-in-transit robberies in South Africa. Authorities are facing increasing pressure to curb these violent crimes, which not only threaten security personnel and bystanders but also destabilize the financial system.