The Ministry of Police commends the remarkable bravery and swift action of the East London Tactical Response Team (TRT) and the East London Tracking Team in their successful operation on Monday, 24 March 2025, which resulted in a significant breakthrough in the fight against Cash-in-Transit (CIT) heists.
At approximately 18:40, law enforcement officers spotted a white Isuzu double cab, suspected to be involved in a series of CIT heists. The vehicle was located on the R63 route near Qumrha, where road construction was underway. Upon noticing the police presence, the suspects attempted to evade capture by reversing their vehicle and opening fire on officers. In response, officers engaged, returning fire and forcing the vehicle to a standstill. Two suspects attempted to flee the scene but were apprehended shortly afterwards.
The subsequent investigation revealed a high level of preparedness. A suspect was found fatality wounded in the driver’s seat of the vehicle, with a rifle found beside them. Additionally, three AK style rifles, one R5 rifle, two buckets full of ammunition, a khaki bulletproof vest, and explosives were recovered. The vehicle was later confirmed as stolen in Mthatha earlier this year and was linked to several CIT heists in the region. The National Commissioner has provided the Minister with a detailed report.
In his commendation, the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, stated, “we salute the tireless efforts of the East London TRT, the East London Tracking Team, and the K9 unit, whose commitment led to the successful disruption of this criminal operation. While this success is a significant blow to criminal syndicates targeting cash-in-transit operations, the Ministry is deeply concerned about the increasing frequency of these crimes. We want to make it clear that this rise in CIT heists will not be tolerated. The extent to which these criminals were armed is particularly troubling; high-calibre firearms such as AK-47s and an R5 rifle were found in their vehicle. The Ministry, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, is committed to dismantling these criminal networks and ensuring that those responsible for these dangerous acts face the full force of the law.
“In addition, we strongly urge companies involved in the transportation of cash to be more vigilant and to tighten their security measures. The screening of employees, particularly those handling sensitive operations, must be enhanced to prevent any potential insider threats. The police will continue to engage with the private sector to ensure that appropriate security systems are in place. The Ministry recognises the gravity of the situation, particularly in provinces where crime rates remain high. We are actively working on additional plans to further strengthen our national strategy against crime. The safety of our citizens is a priority, and we will continue to deploy resources and implement measures aimed at reducing crime across the country.”
The National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola, has firmly defended police officers who respond with authority and the powers vested in them in the fight against crime. This follows numerous incidents in several provinces where heavily armed criminals have shown a disregard for the law, and engaged in shootouts with police officers.
“For as long as criminals attack police officers, the police will respond decisively, as empowered by the relevant legislation that governs their work,” said General Masemola.
“Police have observed with concern statements issued in defence of criminals and the questionable silence when police officers are killed in the line of duty, including community members who are always at risk and at times killed as innocent bystanders,” he added.
Section 205 of the South African Constitution mandates the South African Police Service to prevent, investigate, and combat crime, maintain public order, protect citizens and their property, and uphold and enforce the law.
Since 1 April 2024, 21 police officers have been killed in the line of duty, which has resulted in calls for community members and civil society to rally behind the police in the fight against crime.
Police officers across the country continue their work, maintaining public order and fighting crime. Since the inception of the high-density Operation Shanela, over 1.2 million individuals have been arrested for various crimes, including murder, attempted murder, rape, and aggravated robbery, among others.
