A dramatic cash-in-transit (CIT) heist unfolded on Thursday morning when a Fidelity armoured van was ambushed and blown open outside Fresh N Frozen Butchery along the R510 near Waterfall Mall. The attack, which occurred shortly after 09:00, sent shockwaves through the busy commercial area as heavily armed criminals executed a bold and violent robbery in broad daylight.
According to witnesses, at least eight suspects armed with high-powered rifles surrounded the security van before unleashing a barrage of gunfire. The guards came under immediate attack as the robbers fired repeatedly at the van, forcing them into a fierce gun battle to defend the vehicle and its cargo. Amid the exchange of fire, the suspects set off powerful explosives against the armoured truck, blasting it open to gain access to the cash compartments.
During the intense shootout, one of the robbers was struck in the leg. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as the injured suspect stumbled before turning his pistol on himself. In a shocking moment, the wounded man shot himself in the head, dying instantly on the roadway. His accomplices, undeterred by the gunfire and explosion debris, swiftly moved to seize bags filled with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Once the money was secured, the remaining suspects fled the scene in two getaway vehicles: a white Toyota Hilux bakkie and a silver Volkswagen Polo. Both vehicles sped away before police could arrive, and officers are now racing to track them down.
North West police have since launched a high-intensity manhunt. Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone, provincial police spokesperson, confirmed that multiple specialised units have been deployed, including helicopter support and tracker teams. The operation aims to locate the suspects, recover the stolen cash, and gather vital forensic evidence from the crime scene.
“We have opened cases of armed robbery, attempted murder and an inquest,” Brigadier Mokgwabone said, adding that investigators are already analysing ballistic evidence and surveillance footage from nearby businesses. Officers are also urging the public to report any sightings of the identified vehicles or individuals linked to the attack.
Despite the ferocity of the assault, no Fidelity guards sustained serious injuries. The quick response and defensive action of the officers on duty helped prevent further casualties, though the emotional and psychological impact of such a high-risk confrontation remains immeasurable.
Residents and business owners in the area were left shaken by the explosion and gunfire, with several expressing concern over the rising frequency of CIT heists across the country. The R510 was temporarily cordoned off as police combed the area for shell casings, explosive residue, and additional clues that may lead to arrests.
As the manhunt continues, authorities are appealing for calm and cooperation from the community. Anyone with information related to the suspects or their getaway vehicles is urged to contact local police immediately. The investigation remains ongoing.
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