Police in Mpumalanga have opened a full investigation following a shocking incident at a shopping centre in Bushbuckridge where a man accused of attempting to rob a cash-in-transit vehicle was killed in full view of shoppers.
The incident, which took place at Twin City Shopping Centre, has drawn widespread attention after a graphic video circulated on social media showing the dramatic confrontation. The footage has sparked heated public debate, with many questioning the actions of those involved and whether excessive force was used during the incident.
According to reports from police, the cash-in-transit vehicle had arrived at the shopping centre with two security officers on duty. One of the guards allegedly entered a nearby store while the driver remained inside the vehicle.
Authorities claim that during this moment, a man approached the vehicle and allegedly attacked the driver with a sharp object in what police believe was an attempted robbery.
Security personnel stationed nearby reportedly noticed the confrontation unfolding and reacted immediately. Police say the guards opened fire on the alleged suspect, causing him to collapse near the vehicle.
However, the situation escalated further moments later when the driver of the cash-in-transit van allegedly drove over the suspect several times. Emergency services were called to the scene, but the man was declared dead before medical assistance could help him.
Witnesses at the shopping centre described scenes of panic and confusion as shoppers gathered around balconies and corridors watching the incident unfold below. Some people reportedly began recording videos on their phones while others rushed to safety as gunshots rang out.
The disturbing footage quickly spread online, attracting thousands of reactions across social media platforms. Many users expressed shock over the brutality seen in the video, while others argued that cash-in-transit robberies have become increasingly violent in South Africa and often place innocent lives at risk.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Donald Mdhluli confirmed that investigators are working to establish the exact sequence of events that led to the man’s death. He said authorities are interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence, including video footage from the scene.
Police have not yet released the identity of the deceased, and it remains unclear whether he acted alone or if other suspects may have been involved in the attempted robbery.
Acting provincial police commissioner Zeph Mkhwanazi said the matter is being treated seriously and warned that anyone found to have acted outside the law would face the necessary consequences.
He also urged members of the public to stop sharing the graphic footage online, saying it was important to respect the dignity of the deceased and the emotional impact the incident may have on affected families and witnesses.
Cash-in-transit robberies remain a major concern in South Africa, with criminals frequently targeting security vehicles transporting large sums of money. Many of these attacks have turned deadly in recent years, often involving heavily armed suspects and violent confrontations.
Police have confirmed that the case is currently being investigated as both attempted robbery and murder while investigations continue.
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