A tragic cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery has rocked the town of Mandeni in northern KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), leaving one security guard dead and authorities on high alert. The incident occurred early Saturday morning, 10 May, when armed suspects launched a violent ambush on a cash delivery vehicle traveling along the P415 Road.
According to police reports, the heavily armed criminals opened fire on the CIT truck as it was en route, resulting in the death of a security officer on duty. The barrage of gunfire forced the driver to lose control, causing the vehicle to veer off the road. The attackers then seized an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene.
KZN police, along with private security units, have since launched a manhunt for the suspects. Colonel Robert Netshiunda, provincial police spokesperson, confirmed the incident and emphasized that law enforcement is working tirelessly to track down those responsible.
“Police in KZN are on the lookout for an unknown number of suspects who allegedly robbed a cash-in-transit vehicle on the P415 Road in Mandeni. One security guard was declared dead at the scene, and two firearms were reportedly taken by the suspects,” said Colonel Netshiunda.
This latest incident adds to a growing list of CIT heists in the region, highlighting the increasing danger faced by security personnel transporting money. Over the past several months, KZN has seen a surge in such violent crimes. In March, three suspects believed to be involved in multiple CIT robberies were killed in a shootout with police in Durban. Authorities had been tracking the group since 2021 and intercepted them while they were allegedly planning a house robbery. Two illegal firearms were recovered at the scene.
The recurrence of these heists has raised concern among law enforcement agencies and the public alike, as they pose a significant threat not only to security personnel but also to civilians who may be caught in the crossfire. The brazen nature of these attacks—often carried out in broad daylight and with military-style precision—suggests a high level of organization and planning.
Police urge anyone with information related to the Mandeni robbery or the suspects involved to come forward. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stop or local police stations.
As investigations continue, security companies operating in the province are likely to increase their precautions. There is also growing pressure on authorities to implement stronger measures to prevent further attacks on cash transport vehicles.
The tragic loss of life in the Mandeni robbery underscores the urgent need for a coordinated national strategy to combat the rise in CIT-related crime. Meanwhile, the family of the slain guard mourns a loved one who lost his life in the line of duty, reminding South Africans of the often overlooked risks faced by those protecting valuable assets.