CIT robberies in South Africa stand apart from similar crimes globally due to the extraordinary levels of violence involved. Maree said that CIT robberies are not a normal crime phenomenon and that it deeply affects South Africa’s economy and every citizen’s daily life.

The definition of CIT robbery, as adopted by CITASA, involves the unlawful and intentional removal of cash under the control of CIT employees, accompanied by violence. This violence often includes bombings, the use of high-calibre firearms and targeted attacks on armoured vehicles.

Maree highlighted the unique structure of CIT robbery syndicates. Unlike traditional organised crime, these criminals are often loosely connected and operate based on specialised skills. For instance, bombers with expertise in explosives may work with multiple groups.

She pointed out a critical challenge in law enforcement: A robber might appear to be a first-time offender because it’s the first time they’ve been arrested, but they’ve often committed multiple robberies. This misconception can lead to bail being granted for individuals who are, in reality, repeat offenders with histories of violent crimes such as business robberies and home invasions.

Moreover, CIT robbers often face related charges, including possession of illegal firearms, explosives and stolen vehicles, further complicating prosecution.

Maree emphasised the importance of understanding the spatial dynamics of CIT robberies. These crimes are typically planned with escape routes in mind, often occurring near on- and off-ramps, rural areas or informal settlements where criminals can hide or access safe houses.

Using spatial analysis allows CITASA to identify high-risk areas and focus resources effectively. Escape routes are central to how these crimes are orchestrated.

Maree’s presentation drew attention to statistical trends, illustrating the evolving nature of CIT crimes. Between 2017 and 2023, South Africa experienced a 21% reduction in CIT robberies, a decline attributed to intensified collaboration between law enforcement and industry stakeholders. However, this progress has not been uniform.

The financial impact of CIT robberies is staggering. In 2023 alone, 77% of armoured vehicles targeted were bombed, resulting in losses exceeding R200 million. Each armoured vehicle costs approximately R1.5 to R1.7 million and the destruction caused by explosives necessitates rebuilding from scratch.

The human cost is equally devastating. These crimes frequently result in injuries and fatalities among CIT personnel and bystanders. Maree noted that the availability of illegal firearms and explosives compounds the challenge, enabling criminals to execute increasingly sophisticated attacks.

To combat the growing threat, the CIT industry has implemented a range of preventative measures, from reinforcing armoured vehicles to cross-pavement devices designed to mark stolen cash with dye. Training and vetting of employees are also key components of the industry’s response.

However, Maree stressed that collaboration is essential. The offenders operate across provincial and even national borders, making coordinated action essential. The sharing of information between police, industry players and even the public is critical.

CITASA has worked closely with law enforcement, including the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), to establish joint task teams. These teams analyse crime patterns, issue early warnings and link cases to facilitate prosecutions. Additionally, public hotlines have been introduced to encourage citizen reporting of suspicious activity.

The industry has also intensified its focus on offender profiling, using intelligence to identify high-risk individuals and track their movements. Collaboration with manufacturers has led to the development of better-protected vehicles, though criminals have countered with more powerful explosives.

Despite the challenges, there have been successes. Convictions and arrests have increased, while injuries and fatalities have decreased. Maree highlighted a 30% decrease in robberies since the implementation of key collaborative initiatives.

Nevertheless, she urged continued vigilance, noting that even if the numbers decrease, the industry cannot relax. Vigilance and innovation remain critical.

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The company said the top three most affected areas are Centurion, Olievenhoutbosch, Eldoraigne and Gezina areas.

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing & Communications at Fidelity ADT, said in many of these incidents, the alarm panel or antenna of the alarm was accessed through the roof, and in some instances installed in the roof. “The criminals then break the panel or antenna which prevents alarm signals from reaching the control room,” she explained.

“We urge all business owners in these areas to consider installing off site monitoring services to reduce the chances of criminals reaching your property and gaining access to the roof. Ask your security provider if they provide Multi-camera alarm activated monitoring done by skilled operators in an offsite monitoring center. Consider installing a camera in your roof.”

Hattingh said outdoor detection beams can also be strategically placed around properties which will trigger the alarm before a criminal has the chance to get to the actual business.

She pointed out that if someone is considering a wall-top electric fence, they need to make sure that the right fence is used as well as the right installer. “The effectiveness of these fences can be compromised if the wrong fence is selected and the installation done incorrectly. Choosing the correct installer is crucial and we highly recommend getting several quotes before choosing an installer. You should consider getting a qualified consultant to write a technical specification for the fence. This specification should take into account factors including the wiring and structure of the fence, the height, number of zones required, and the lifespan of the fence. The specification should then be sent to electric fence installers operating in the area in order to compare pricing, quality and advice.”

“It is important that like any system your security is checked and maintained regularly. Please take a walk around your property and look for possible access points to your property and roof. If you suspect there are vulnerable areas, call in a security expert to help you find solutions,” she concluded.

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Mkhwanazi said the meeting in Durban was historic in the history of policing in the province as it was the first time that all 3000 commissioned officers, ranked captain and upwards, were in one room.

“The aim of this meeting was to gauge our performances and account on all the shortfalls that need drastic and urgent improvements.  That is why I called all commanders who are in charge of various components, units, sections and sub-sections at various levels of command. I took the opportunity to remind the commanders of their mandate and responsibilities.”

“Police officers need to keep it in their minds that they are the hope of communities and any negligence of their responsibilities must come at a cost. In the province of KwaZulu-Natal we want police officers who do their work willingly, just the way they applied for this calling. Every police officer must be accountable for all their actions and that starts with commanders whom we have gathered here today,” he explained.

We also appreciate private security, especially those who are part of the Eyes and Ears project. They are the first responders to most crime scene and their cooperation is valued and appreciated.

Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi

Mkhwanazi said KwaZulu-Natal police arrested 121614 suspected criminals for various crimes in the previous financial year.

Over 37500 of them were nabbed for contact crimes.

“Our detectives were hard at work and of the total number of those arrested for contact crimes, 2407 of them were arrested for murder, 4874 were nabbed for rape, whereas 3069 suspects were arrested for attempted murder.”

“On cases of robbery with aggravating circumstances, 2395 suspects were arrested. These suspects are at different stages of court appearances,” he said.

Mkhwanazi said the province had been in the spotlight for gruesome violent crimes, especially murders that attracted international attention and made headlines worldwide.

“During the execution of operations, a total of 3575 firearms and thousands of ammunition of various calibre of firearms were recovered. Detectives in KwaZulu-Natal also managed to crack high-profile cases and ensure that suspects face justice.”

“I will not talk about the murders of rapper ‘AKA’ and his friend ‘Tibs’. That one is documented and we shall leave it to the law to run its cause.  In June last year, six people were shot and killed in Umbumbulu. Sphamandla Mkhize was arrested for that crime and is facing the cause of justice.”

“In Vryheid, Sanele Magubabe, Buyani Ngobese and Ziphumelele Ngobese were arrested for the attempted murder of three people and conspiracy to commit murder.  Mthembu Mzokhona Sinethemba, who is now deceased, was arrested for the KwaMakhutha triple murder in April last year.”

“Apart from the suspects who were fatally wounded in a shootout with police following the murder of 10 family members in Plessislaer in April last year, detectives traced and arrested Thabo Deon Warren Conco for those multiple murders. Thabo, who also goes by the name of Deon Sjava Mathonsi Chonco, was also positively linked with the murders of five people at Bulwer in May 2023.”

He said four people were also arrested for the murders of 13 people who were found burnt at a house in Taylors Halt in June last year.

“Bongile Mabele, who is also known as Bala, was arrested for the murders of eight people and the attempted murder of four more people in Umlazi in July 2023. Still in Umlazi, Siphamandla Dhlomo was arrested for the murder of seven people which happened in August last year.”

“Umlazi was a hype of activities crime wise and another four people were arrested in connection with the murders of eight people and the attempted murder of another four people, also in August 2023.”

“In November last year, another mass murder happened in Plessislaer where 10 people were shot and killed. Our detectives traced and arrested Thembelani Mbatha for that gruesome crime,” said Mkhwanazi.

KwaZulu-Natal police also arrested suspected involved in a Rustenburg cash-in-transit robbery.

“This year our detectives have already arrested suspects who are linked to the killing of five people in Plessislaer, as well as suspects who are believed to have been behind three murders in Pietermaritzburg.”

“We have also arrested suspects for three murders and attempted murders which happened in Folweni and a foreign national of Asian origin who was arrested for the murder and four attempted murders of his fellow countrymen last week.”

“These just the highlights of the great successes that our police officers continue to attain as we forge ahead with our resolve to create a safe and secure environment for the residents of KwaZulu-Natal and all local and international tourists,” said Mkhwanazi.

He said vehicle theft syndicates were also dealt a blow with the recovery of 2660 stolen and hijacked vehicles.

“We appreciate the good work done by the team which was deployed at Emanguzi, an area which was used as gateway to smuggle vehicles from our country into the neighbouring Mozambique.”   

Between October 2023 and May this year, over R1.5 billion worth of cocaine was recovered in KwaZulu-Natal.

“Over 300000 litres of liquor were seized, mostly due to illegal dealing in liquor at shebeens and backroom activities. These successes would not have been achieved without strong relationship between us as police and community members. We plead with community structures and individuals to take a firm stance against criminals and continue to forge a strong partnership with police,” said Mkhwanazi.

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Police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili said a tip-off about the gang, which allegedly committed blue light robberies on the N3 between Villiers and Heidleburg using a white Toyota Hilux, led a multidisciplinary team to them on the N3 highway, Grootvlei in Mpumalanga.

“The vehicle was spotted with blue lights on. The suspects saw the police and sped away, resulting in a high-speed chase towards Zonkizizwe, Ekurhuleni. The suspects started shooting at the team and the team retaliated. Three suspects were fatally shot and one suspect managed to flee the scene on foot,” she said.

Police seized two unlicensed firearms and ammunition, blue lights as well as the suspects’ vehicle.

“The multidisciplinary team included, SAPS National Head Office Counter Intelligence, Secunda Crime Intelligence, Gauteng Tactical Response Team, Gauteng Anti-Gang Unit, DPC Tracking Team, Johannesburg K9, CAP Specialised Operations, Tracker Connect, ICB Insurance Crime Bureau, MZ Werke Security, Telesure Insurance Investigation.”

“Crime Scene Management team combed the crime scene for more evidence while the vehicle was taken to Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit for further analysis,” said Muridili.

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ALS Paramedics spokesman Garrith Jamieson said the shooting occurred on Rick Turner Road.

“Around 11:20am this morning ALS Paramedics received numerous call for medical assistance at a shooting incident on Rick Turner Rd near Queen Mary Avenue. Paramedics arrived on the scene to find South African Police Service (SAPS) and security personnel on the scene with the scene cordoned off.”

“Paramedics were shown to a security officer believed to be in his thirties who was in a critical condition having sustained a gunshot wound to his upper body. Advanced Life Support Paramedics worked to stabilise the man on the scene before he rushed to a nearby Hospital for the urgent care that he required,” he said

Jamieson said it was alleged that suspects robbed the guard of money however SAPS were on the scene and will be investigating further.

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The Ezingolweni Regional Court also found Bonginkosi Mabusela (34), Phelo Mdleleni (47), Sinenhlanhla Mhlamvu (33) guilty of theft of more than R709000. Their accomplice, Zitha Nobhadula died awaiting trial.

During their investigations, seasoned detectives from the Port Shepstone Serious Organised Crime Investigation discovered that the robbers were none other than the security guards, who had collected cash from a depot on 30 April 2021. They were travelling from Port Sheptone to Kokstad.

“Whilst travelling in convoy the other vehicle disappeared and the other one was allegedly intercepted by the suspects. An undisclosed amount of cash and firearms were taken. The witness who was passing by the crime scene was robbed of her cell phone and her vehicle keys were thrown in the bushes. The case was reported at Harding police station and the case docket was allocated to the Hawks for intensive investigation,” said Hawks spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Simphiwe Mhlongo.

He said detectives established the guards’ involvement when they interviewed them.  

“During the interview, it was established that Mabusela, Mdleleni and Mhlamvu were involved. It was also discovered that they conspired with the former security guard, Nobhadula and his accomplices to stage the robbery. Their houses were searched and R709510 cash was recovered.”

“The four accused were arrested and charged accordingly. They appeared in court and their bail application was successfully opposed. Nobhadula died in prison whilst awaiting trial,” said Mhlongo.

His three co-accused were found guilty on 8 March.

“Mabusela, Mdleleni and Mhlamvu were each sentenced to 15 years imprisonment for conspiracy to commit theft, 15 years imprisonment for theft of cash, 10 years imprisonment for theft of firearms, 15 years imprisonment for robbery, five years imprisonment for malicious damage to property and 5 years imprisonment for defeating the ends of justice. “

“The sentence of theft of firearms, malicious damage to property and defeating the ends of justice will run concurrently with other counts,” said Mhlongo.

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Police spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said members from Provincial Organised Crime, Multi-Dimensional Crime Intelligence, Kimberley K9 Unit and Kimberley Flying Squad raided the residence in Galeshewe after a tip-off regarding a meeting to plan robberies.

“They were found in the possession of SAPS uniforms, SAPS rank insignia, SAPS equipment, and three illegal firearms.”

“The trio, aged 29, 34 and 54 were arrested on charges of possession of suspected stolen goods and illegal possession of firearms.  They will appear in court soon,” she said.

Ehlers added that the possible connection to related crimes would also be investigated.

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Since November, 131 schools in the Nelson Mandela Bay region have been robbed, Eastern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Malibongwe Mtima told GroundUp. Most of these have been at gunpoint.

The provincial Department of Education has issued a statement, declaring several areas within the municipality “hotspots” and has allocated millions of rands to improve security at these and other schools. The department said the crime hotspots were in the northern areas of KwaZakhele, Zwide, and Motherwell in Gqeberha.

According to the police, the latest incident happened outside Elufefeni Primary School in NU7, Motherwell, when schools just opened last week.

Police spokesperson Andre Beetge said, “A vehicle hijacking took place in Mzwazwa Street (at the gate of Elufefeni). It is alleged that a few teachers at the school, arriving in a grey Kia SUV, were waiting for the gate to be unlocked when they were approached by three armed suspects.”

Beetge said the robbers took the teachers’ personal belongings and their car. “The vehicle was later found abandoned a block away. A case of hijacking is being investigated.”

In Kariega, police spokesperson Priscilla Naidu confirmed that at least three incidents of robberies at gunpoint last month at Phaphani and Tinarha High Schools, as well as Mjuleni primary school in KwaNobuhle township.

At KwaZakhele High School in Gqeberha, which has been repeatedly robbed, a teacher who asked not to be named said robbers were very young. The school has about 1,076 learners.

“These robbers are as young as our learners,” she said.

“They come in groups of three to five on busy days when non-teaching staff like security guards won’t notice. In 2019, they made off with our belongings such as wrist watches, chains, necklaces, cellphones and laptops. Last year, they came to the staff room.

“They pulled out guns, demanded our personal belongings, and left with them. I thought it was a joke, assuming that they were carrying toys, because they were as young as learners,” she said.

Outgoing chairperson of the School Governing Body at the school, Phumzile Vena, said some teachers were thinking of quitting because they no longer feel safe even behind the school’s gates. He said after a recent robbery only 9 of the 30 teachers had returned to school after the robbery.

“Teachers say if the situation is not improved, they will find work elsewhere,” he said.

Education MEC Fundile Gade last week told the media that his department had allocated R59-million to upgrade security at schools in the 2024/2025 financial year. An additional 1,000 security guards will be hired, he said, as well as 350 administrative staff and 24 assistant social workers will also be employed as part of the plan to make schools safer.

“We are going to install surveillance cameras, access control systems, alert buttons that are linked to the police stations, as well as fences to make sure our schools are safe,” said Gade.

Written by GroundUp. The original article can be found here.

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