A cash-in-transit robbery on the N8 near the Botshabelo-West T-junction this morning (16/5) has left one security guard injured and prompted an investigation by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit in the Free State.
According to Warrant Officer Fikiswa Matoti, spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (the Hawks) in the Free State, the incident occurred at approximately 07:30 when three security guards travelling in an armoured cash delivery vehicle, accompanied by two guards in an escort vehicle, were allegedly attacked while travelling along the N8.
Matoti says preliminary information indicates that the armoured vehicle was allegedly rammed by a BMW, forcing it to stop.
“It is alleged that the suspects robbed the security guards of one service pistol and took an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene,” says Matoti.
The suspects allegedly escaped in a white Ford Ranger, silver Mercedes-Benz, and charcoal JAC in the direction of Bloemfontein. Another vehicle believed to have been involved in the robbery, an Audi Q5, is suspected to have travelled in the direction of Ladybrand.
During the incident, one of the two security guards travelling in the escort vehicle sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.
Matoti says a case of cash-in-transit robbery and attempted murder is under investigation.
Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to alert the nearest police station or contact Detective Colonel Mofokeng of the Hawks on 075 988 1432.
“Members of the public are warned not to confront the suspects as they are considered heavily armed and dangerous,” Matoti concludes.
Compiled by Gypseenia Lion
