Gauteng police launch manhunt following cash-in-transit heist attempt in Mamelodi East
Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for multiple armed suspects following an attempted cash-in-transit in Extension 16, Mamelodi East, on Monday.
It is alleged that the suspects, who were travelling in two vehicles, a white or cream Volkswagen Polo and a maroon Volkswagen Polo, attacked security guards who were transporting cash.
According to reports, during the incident, two security guards, aged 34 and 41 were fatally wounded.
A third security guard sustained gunshot wounds and was transported to hospital for medical treatment.
A shootout ensued between the police and the suspects, during which a state vehicle was damaged no police member was injured.
The suspects also set a Mercedes-Benz vehicle alight, completely destroying it.
Police subsequently discovered explosives beneath the cash-in-transit vehicle.
The Explosives Unit was summoned to the scene and safely secured the explosives.
Following information received Crime Intelligence and K9 Unit members conducted a follow-up operation that led to the arrest of a 21-year-old bystander.
He was found in possession of a rifle allegedly stolen from the crime scene. He is facing charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
No cash was taken during the incident. Two firearms belonging to the security company, a rifle and a 9mm pistol, were recovered.
Police have opened cases of two counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, attempted cash-in-transit robbery and malicious damage to property.
