Police Launch Manhunt After Explosive Cash-in-Transit Heist in KZN

Police are searching for an armed gang following a violent cash-in-transit (CIT) heist on the R74 near Stanger in KwaZulu-Natal late Monday afternoon.

According to Kyle van Reenen of Ensure Security, multiple armed suspects ambushed the security vehicle before opening fire. One security officer sustained a gunshot wound, while a second officer suffered moderate injuries.

Samantha Meyrick of IPSS Medical Rescue confirmed that both officers received medical attention and were transported to a facility under the care of advanced life support paramedics.

The attackers used explosives to break into the armored cash vehicle before fleeing with an undisclosed amount of money. Authorities closed the roadway while investigators combed the scene for evidence.

Monday’s robbery marks the second CIT heist in the region in just a few days. On Saturday, a similar attack took place on the R102 between Mandeni and Gingindlovu.

In that incident, armed suspects fired on both a cash van and its escort vehicle, forcing the latter off the road before using explosives to gain access to the cash. The suspects escaped with stolen money and firearms. Two security officers sustained minor injuries and were taken to a medical facility for treatment.

Cash-in-transit heists have been on the rise in KZN. Earlier this month, a security officer from Chatsworth was killed when a cash van was blown up during a robbery.

Last month, another Chatsworth security guard, Nokuthula Mbanjwa, lost her life in a CIT heist near the NPC cement factory on the N2. She was caught in the crossfire between suspects and security personnel, just days before her 40th birthday.

In that attack, assailants forced the cash truck off the road before detonating explosives to gain access to the money.

Authorities have not yet confirmed any arrests related to the latest heist. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward as they intensify efforts to track down the suspects.

The recent surge in violent robberies has raised concerns over the safety of security personnel and the increasing use of explosives in cash heists.

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