Gauteng police have launched an intensive search for several armed suspects after an attempted cash‑in‑transit (CIT) robbery in Mamelodi East Extension 16 on Monday, 7 September, left two security guards fatally wounded and a third wounded and hospitalised, police said.
Early morning attack, shootout and explosives
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said the suspects were travelling in two vehicles — a white or cream Volkswagen Polo and a maroon Volkswagen Polo — when they attacked the security personnel who were transporting cash. During the incident the suspects allegedly set a Mercedes‑Benz alight, destroying the vehicle.
“A shootout ensued between the police and the suspects, during which a state vehicle was damaged. No police member was injured,”
Sibeko said explosives were later found beneath the cash‑in‑transit vehicle. The Explosives Unit was called to the scene and secured the devices, she said.
Casualties, arrests and recovered items
Two security guards, aged 34 and 41, were fatally wounded, while a third guard sustained gunshot wounds and was taken to hospital for medical treatment, according to Sibeko. She said no police officers were hurt during the exchange of gunfire.
Following information received by police and the Security Personnel Party of South Africa’s (SPPSA) follow‑up, Crime Intelligence and the K9 Unit arrested a 21‑year‑old bystander. He was found in possession of a rifle allegedly stolen from the scene and faces charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Two firearms belonging to the security company — a rifle and a 9mm pistol — were recovered. Sibeko said:
“No cash was taken during the incident.”
Charges opened and ongoing investigation
Police have opened multiple cases related to the attack, including two counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, attempted CIT robbery and malicious damage to property. The investigation is ongoing and police said they will continue following up on leads.
The SPPSA earlier offered a R200 000 reward for information leading to the arrest and successful prosecution of those responsible for the attempted heist.
What is known so far
- Location: Mamelodi East Extension 16, Pretoria
- Date: Monday, 7 September
- Vehicles involved: white/cream Volkswagen Polo, maroon Volkswagen Polo, Mercedes‑Benz (set alight)
- Casualties: two security guards dead (34 and 41), one guard wounded and hospitalised
- Arrests: one 21‑year‑old arrested on firearm and ammunition possession charges
- Items recovered: rifle and 9mm pistol belonging to the security company; explosives found and secured
| Item | Count |
|---|---|
| Security guards killed | 2 |
| Security guards wounded | 1 |
| Suspect arrests (so far) | 1 |
| Reward offered | R200 000 |
Community and policing context
The attack follows a spate of violent incidents targeting CIT crews in parts of South Africa. Such incidents often involve multiple armed assailants, the use of explosives and careful planning to disable vehicles or create diversions. Gauteng residents have expressed concern about the safety of security personnel who transport cash and valuables.
Authorities have not disclosed whether investigators have identified or linked the suspects to other incidents. Police enquiries continue and members of the public with information are urged to contact their nearest police station or Crime Stop.
Local residents in Mamelodi said they were shaken by the violence and called for increased police visibility around hubs where cash‑in‑transit vehicles operate. Police did not provide a timetable for further arrests or confirm whether additional rewards have been offered.
The matter remains under active investigation. Anyone with information that could assist the probe was asked to come forward and share details with law enforcement.
