Three suspected cash‑in‑transit robbers killed, a fourth arrested after R80 shootout

Gauteng police shot and killed three suspected cash‑in‑transit (CIT) robbers and arrested a fourth after a shootout on the R80 highway on Monday, 28 September.

Operation followed intelligence

Gauteng police said a multidisciplinary team was acting on intelligence that suspects were allegedly planning a robbery. The team included members of the SAPS Tactical Response Team, the Anti‑Gang Unit, the Gauteng Traffic Air Wing and private security companies through Business Against Crime South Africa.

Confrontation on the R80

The team reportedly spotted a white Hyundai H1 on the R80 and attempted to stop the vehicle using blue lights. According to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, “the occupants allegedly opened fire on the police, who responded, resulting in three suspects being fatally wounded.”

Arrest and weapons recovered

Police recovered an AK‑47 rifle and a 9mm pistol from the Hyundai. Nevhuhulwi said a further suspect, believed to be working with the same team, was travelling in a Toyota Avanza, was arrested and was found in possession of a 9mm pistol.

Forensics and follow-up

Forensic experts processed the scene for further evidence. Nevhuhulwi said the recovered firearms would be subjected to ballistic testing “to establish whether they can be linked to other crimes.”

Police response praised

Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing Major General Fred Kekana commended the multidisciplinary team for its efforts to disrupt cash‑in‑transit and cross‑pavement robberies in the province.

The incident remains under investigation.