Failed Cash-in-Transit Heist in Thokoza Leaves Suspect Severely Injured
A (cash-in-transit) CIT robbery attempt in Thokoza, Ekurhuleni, turned into chaos on Tuesday morning when one of the suspects reportedly lost a leg during an explosion. The incident unfolded at Phola Park Extension 5, where a group of about ten armed men attempted to bomb a cash van. Gauteng police have launched a major investigation into the foiled heist.
Details of the Failed Heist
The botched robbery occurred in the early hours of May 6th at the intersection of Khumalo and Murubisi streets. A silver BMW rammed into the Fidelity cash van, intending to gain access to the cash inside. As the suspects exited the vehicle, one of them, carrying live explosives, attempted to detonate them near the cash van.
However, the explosives detonated prematurely, causing a severe injury that reportedly led to the suspect losing a leg. Graphic images from the scene, showing the suspect’s dislocated leg near the damaged van, have been circulating on social media.
Police Investigation and Eyewitness Accounts
Captain Tintswalo Sibeko, a spokesperson for the Gauteng South African Police Service (SAPS), confirmed the incident, stating that the police are investigating cases of attempted robbery and attempted murder. No cash was stolen during the heist, and the silver BMW used in the ramming was abandoned at the scene.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing the group of suspects flee the scene in three other vehicles. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the injured suspect, who appeared to be in critical condition, was taken away by his accomplices. The police, however, could not confirm the suspect’s condition.
“The cash van was rammed by a silver BMW. Preliminary investigations indicate that one suspect sustained a serious injury during the explosion. No arrests were made,” said Captain Sibeko.
Community Concerns and Ongoing Investigations
The failed CIT robbery has raised security concerns among Thokoza residents. Authorities are appealing for anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
Law enforcement agencies have intensified their efforts to track down the suspects, with witness questioning already underway. The police are working to identify all involved parties and bring them to justice.
Call to Action
Gauteng residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to the incident. As the investigation continues, the community is on high alert, with many expressing concerns about the rising number of CIT heists in the area.
The dramatic events in Thokoza have left one suspect severely injured and the community shaken. Despite the failure to steal cash, the violent nature of the heist has sparked a significant police response. Updates will follow as more information becomes available from the ongoing investigation.
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