Hawks are investigating a case of cash-in transit robbery which took place between East London and Butterworth on Friday, September 23.
According to Hawks spokesperson, Captain Yolisa Mgolodela the alleged incident took place at approximately 17:45 when the guards from G4S Security Solutions were on their way to East London after collecting money from various outlets in Butterworth and surroundings.
“While they were driving on the N2 towards East London near the Ndabakazi area, the driver heard some shots fired at their vehicle. He noticed that the shooting was coming from a white Isuzu double cab with no canopy and a GP registration,” said Mgolodela.
The driver allegedly noticed a number of unknown males at the back of this double cab with firearms shooting at them until both the front and rear tyres of the truck were damaged. He then decided to stop the vehicle, Mgolodela said.
“The double cab allegedly drove past them then made a U-turn and continued shooting at them. The driver, together with his crew then ran away but were cornered by another group of armed men who were travelling by a white single cab bakkie.”
Mgolodela added that the suspects allegedly pointed the guards with firearms and instructed them to lie down on the grass next to the road.
“The guard’s firearms were alleged taken from them. The guards do not know the serial numbers of their firearms that were taken as their permits were destroyed in the explosion.”
Mgodolela further added that the suspects are said to have attached an explosive device to the G4S truck.
“The exploded and money was lying all over the road. The suspects then took some of the money and left. Community members and vehicles passing by then took the remaining money.”
The exact amount of money that was taken is not known at this stage and no arrests have been.”
