Bomb Squad on Scene After CIT Heist in Pietermaritzburg

A cash-in-transit (CIT) heist near the Bisley Nature Reserve in Pietermaritzburg turned into a high-alert operation on Wednesday evening as police and a specialist bomb squad descended on the scene. By 8 p.m., the area remained sealed off, with authorities urging the public to steer clear until it was declared safe.

The armed robbery unfolded just before 5:45 p.m. at the intersection of Oribi and Murray Roads. The suspects, believed to number around 12, intercepted and bombed an FCS armoured van carrying cash.

Sources on the scene told The Witness that the heist was originally planned to take place near the N3 highway. However, a sudden route change by the cash vehicle driver may have disrupted the suspects’ strategy — though not enough to stop the attack altogether.

Law enforcement officers discovered at least five bullet casings scattered across the roadway, indicating a fierce gun battle. A white Isuzu bakkie, suspected to have been used by the robbers, was found torched near the blast site.

Murray Road has been cordoned off from the Oribi Road intersection, and a bomb disposal unit is currently combing the area for any potential explosive devices that may not have detonated.

The Hawks, alongside members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), are managing the scene and conducting a thorough forensic investigation. As of Wednesday night, the identities of the suspects and the getaway vehicles remain unknown.

Authorities continue to warn residents and motorists to avoid the vicinity until further notice.

{Source: The Witness}

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