A grim picture is emerging of the ongoing battle against cash-in-transit (CIT) heists in South Africa, a battle marked by daring robberies, tragic deaths, and the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement. In recent weeks, several incidents have highlighted the scale and complexity of this criminal enterprise, revealing a network of organised crime that spans multiple provinces.
The latest developments unfolded near Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, where two suspected CIT robbers were fatally wounded in a shootout with police. The incident occurred at Wasbank, as officers followed up on intelligence regarding the whereabouts of the two suspects. These individuals were allegedly involved in at least six CIT robberies across various locations, including KwaDukuza, Verulam, Phoenix, Greytown, Nyomi, and Langlaagte, between 2022 and March of 2025.
According to Provincial Police Spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the suspects opened fire on police officers upon their arrival at the house where they were hiding. He said police identified the house in which the suspects were hiding, and when they arrived and introduced themselves, the suspects fired shots towards police officers and a shootout ensued. Colonel Netshiunda added that the two suspects were shot dead during the shootout.
During the confrontation, police confiscated two firearms from the suspects. Fortunately, no police officers sustained any injuries during the exchange. Netshiunda also revealed that one of the deceased suspects, a 43-year-old man, had an outstanding warrant of arrest for being in possession of explosives and ammunition, suggesting a history of involvement in serious criminal activity.
Last week, Police spokesperson Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed the fatalities in the Boksburg shootout, stating that no members of the South African Police Service were harmed during the incident. An AK-47 and a pistol were recovered from the scene, further underscoring the level of armament employed by these criminals.
Provincial Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni addressed the media following the Boksburg incident. He highlighted the collaborative effort between police units, security companies, and counter-intelligence forces. Mthombeni indicated that technology helped the team find the suspects' location, where suspects started to shoot. He also said that crossfire occurred, and the police and security industry managed to corner the suspects.
Mthombeni gave a serious view of CIT crimes in South Africa in an interview. He revealed that there had been 76 incidents nationwide since the start of the year. Eighteen security guards had died since January 2025.
To fight the rise in CIT heists, Gauteng was split into north and south teams. This was to improve efforts, increase police presence, and build ties with metro police, Gauteng Traffic Police, and security firms. Mthombeni noted that their aim was to stabilise the situation by being proactive and ensuring law enforcement stayed ahead.
He also spoke about public worries about the slow arrest rate. He assured that authorities were making progress. He said that recent arrests in key heist cases in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng showed progress.
Law enforcement agencies are making progress in catching CIT suspects. However, the incidents often leave destruction and questions. A recent failed CIT heist in Thokoza, East Rand, showed this. One suspect reportedly blew himself up with explosives.
The incident happened early on a Tuesday morning in Phola Park Extension 5. Police reports say armed suspects tried to bomb a cash van. They rammed it with a silver BMW at Khumalo and Murubisi streets.
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said a suspect left the car with explosives. He tried to set them off near the cash van. Sibeko noted that early investigations showed the suspect was seriously hurt during the explosion. The car used in the ramming was left behind.
Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale confirmed the suspect died in the explosion. Mogale stated that no Forensic Pathology Service found body parts at the scene, but at private places and nearby open land.
Despite the lack of initial evidence, Mogale confirmed the suspect was identified by family. Mogale added that the body was identified with family help. The investigation continues, as no suspects were arrested at the scene. It was reported that the family secretly collected the remains of the CIT robber who left a leg at the crime scene.
Sibeko confirmed that no money was taken in the robbery attempt. The suspects fled in three other cars. The Hawks are investigating armed robbery and attempted murder.
These events show the challenges of fighting CIT heists in South Africa. The incidents involve planning, coordination, and weapons. The suspects often work in networks across provinces. This makes it hard to track and catch them.
The loss of life, among security and suspects, shows the human cost of these crimes. The incidents raise concerns about explosives and firearms. There is a need for controls to stop them from falling into the wrong hands.
As investigations continue, the South African Police Service and law enforcement agencies are committed to finding the criminals and stopping the networks. Collaboration between police, security firms, and counter-intelligence is key to fighting this threat.
The fight against CIT heists needs a broad approach. This includes law enforcement, community involvement, better security, and efforts to fix social issues that lead to crime. The recent events remind us of the challenges and the need for vigilance and collaboration. This is to ensure the safety of all South Africans.
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