THOKOZA, May 6 (AGCNewsNet) – A failed cash-in-transit (CIT) heist ended in a deadly shootout in Thokoza, east of Johannesburg, leaving one suspect dead and several others on the run, South African police said.

The armed gang targeted a security vehicle near a shopping complex in the early hours, but were intercepted by a specialised police unit responding to the robbery in progress, according to Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Noxolo Kweza.

"Upon arrival at the scene, police were met with gunfire and retaliated. One suspect was fatally wounded, while others managed to escape," Kweza said. A rifle and a handgun were recovered from the scene.

Video footage shared online showed a crime scene cordoned off with police tape, broken glass, and a wrecked security vehicle surrounded by armed officers.

While the gang failed to access the cash, they left behind evidence including a burnt-out getaway vehicle discovered nearby, believed to have been used during the attempted heist.

No police officers or security guards were reported injured during the incident.

Kweza said investigations were ongoing, with authorities pursuing the remaining suspects who fled the scene on foot.

CIT heists remain a serious concern in South Africa, with police working to dismantle criminal syndicates that often use high-powered firearms and sophisticated tactics.

“Police will not rest until these dangerous criminals are behind bars,” Kweza added.

Authorities urged anyone with information on the suspects to come forward.

Source: News24

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