Police seize rifles, pistol and hijacked BMW in Daveyton raid; suspects flee

Intelligence-led operation uncovers weapons and hijacked vehicle in Daveyton

Police recovered multiple firearms and a hijacked vehicle during an intelligence-driven operation at a house in Daveyton on Wednesday evening, but suspects believed to be linked to a suspected cash-in-transit robbery gang fled before officers arrived.

What officers found

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the search of the premises produced seven rifles, one pistol, reflector jackets and a hijacked BMW X5.

“Upon searching the premises, police recovered seven rifles, one pistol, reflector jackets and a hijacked BMW X5.”

Joint operation and response

The South African Police Service and the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department carried out the operation as part of an ongoing investigation into a group believed to be linked to serious and violent crimes across Gauteng. Mathe said the action was taken after information led officers to the East Rand property.

Manhunt launched

Although the suspects managed to leave before police arrived, authorities have mounted an effort to find and arrest them. Mathe said an overnight effort is underway.

“An overnight manhunt is currently underway to trace and arrest the known suspects who managed to evade arrest.”

Police statement on tackling CIT syndicates

Acting national police commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane praised the coordinated response and stressed law enforcement’s focus on cash-in-transit crimes. Dimpane said:

“This intelligence-driven operation is a clear indication that the SAPS remains resolute in its mission to combat cash-in-transit robberies and other serious and violent crimes.”

Dimpane added:

“We have made significant inroads in dismantling CIT syndicates, and we will continue to deal decisively with those who terrorise our communities and endanger the lives of innocent citizens.”

She also warned criminals involved in cash-in-transit robberies:

“Cash-in-transit robberies are highly organised and violent crimes that require a coordinated response from law enforcement.”

“Our intelligence capabilities continue to improve, and we are closing in on those responsible. We will hunt them down, arrest them and ensure they face the full might of the law.”

Investigation ongoing

Mathe said investigations are continuing and that more arrests are expected as the manhunt intensifies.