GQEBERHA – A cash-in-transit heist took place yesterday at a KwaDwesi shopping centre in front of a police station.

According to the SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, the matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks.

The Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, confirmed the incident.

“On Monday 28 September, in the afternoon, a Fidelity Cash Van was allegedly at Ziyabuya Shopping Centre, at the Total petrol station in KwaDwesi, collecting cash,” he said. “When a crewman was allegedly leaving the kiosk carrying a cash bag, he was accosted by four armed males carrying rifles.”

Mhlakuvana added that at that moment, it is alleged that the suspects started shooting at the security guards and a shootout ensued.

“This culminated in one crewman sustaining a gunshot injury in his leg and he reportedly fell to the ground,” he confirmed.

Mhlakuvana added that the suspects apparently grabbed the bag with an undisclosed amount of cash and ran to a white Toyota Single Cab bakkie.

“No firearms were reportedly taken from the security guards,” he said, as the investigation continues.

Mhlakuvana also confirmed that at the moment no arrests have been effected; however, the Hawks are hunting the suspects.

“Anyone with any credible information can contact the nearest police station or the Hawks directly on 082 417 6972,” he concluded.

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