Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, Mpumalanga’s Acting Police Commissioner, has expressed delight at recent successes made in the fight against cash-in-transit robberies, with four robbers apprehended in Witbank on 17 August.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) stated the operation’s success was due to proactive efforts of crime intelligence, which provided crucial information about the suspects’ intentions.
“This information enabled a joint team to operationalise and strategically position themselves along the R545 Road, heading to Ogies. Upon spotting the suspects attempting to carry out the robbery in a white Mercedes Benz sedan, of which they failed, the members were able to intervene and prevent the attack on the security cash truck,” noted Major General Mkhwanazi.
The suspects then fled the scene in several vehicles including a blue BMW 330i sedan and a charcoal Kia SUV. “A high-speed chase ensued, with law enforcement agencies successfully intercepting the suspects in the Vosman policing area,” notes a statement from SAPS.
During the arrest, suspects were in possession of three AKM style rifles with six magazines, along with 134 live rounds of ammunition, and a 9mm pistol with two magazines. The suspects were also in possession of balaclavas and gloves.
The vehicles used in the attempted robbery were seized for further investigation, with preliminary findings revealing the Mercedes Benz had been reported as stolen in Kabokweni last month.
Several other agencies were involved in the operation, including the tracking teams from Limpopo and Mpumalanga, crime prevention members from Vosman and Fidelity Special Service.
The suspects will face multiple charges, including possession of prohibited firearms and stolen vehicles, and conspiracy to commit a robbery. They are due to appear at Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court, with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) taking over the investigation.
“The confiscated firearms will be subjected to ballistic testing to determine whether these weapons were not previously used in the commission of crime elsewhere hence police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges against the suspects as the investigation continues,” police noted.
Major General Mkhwanazi said this operation once again highlights the dedication and expertise of local law enforcement officers in combating violent crimes and ensuring the safety of communities.
“Firstly, we would like to appreciate the collaboration displayed by the team from Limpopo as well as our team from Mpumalanga and not forgetting the Fidelity Special Service which culminated in this magnificent achievement. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with police to fight against criminal activities,” the Major General added.
