The Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General
Nomthetheleli Mene and her management team applauded police who pounced on robbers
who were allegedly involved in a cash-in-transit robbery on the N6 road between
Stutterheim and East London on July 29.
Spokesperson for the Department of Transport, Unathi Binqose
said on July 29, it was alleged that the robbers used explosives to bomb a cash
van and access the money.
He said that the road remained closed for approximately
seven hours as crime scene investigators and explosives experts combed the
scene for any clues that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the
crime.
According to police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel
Siphokazi Mawisa, after the bombing incident, police swiftly responded to
information and proceeded to a house in Kom Location, Keiskamahoek.
She said that when they approached the house, the suspects
shot at police who then retaliated.
“A shootout ensued, and five suspects were fatally wounded.
The police members were not injured during the shooting,” said Mawisa.
She further said that after following up on the investigation shortly after the shootout, police arrested three suspects aged between 44 and 46 years in
Nxuba (formally Cradock).
“The suspects are allegedly involved in the cash-in-transit
robbery,” said Mawisa.
She said that several rifles and magazines with ammunition,
explosives, and an undisclosed amount of cash were confiscated.
Mawisa further said that the case is being investigated by
the Directorate for Priority Crime and Investigation.
Mene appreciated the efforts of the police and their bravery
in ensuring that those who take part in robberies are followed and
apprehended
“This sends a message to criminals that police will not
repose until we stabilise robberies on cash in transit,” said Mene.
