A multi-disciplinary, integrated Intelligence-driven operation led to the arrest of seven suspected cash-in-transit (CIT) robbers aged between 28 and 45 years during mid morning on 6 June 2020, in three separate areas.
According to Intelligence, the alleged robbers were planning on robbing the Belfast Post Office in Mpumalanga.
However, the joint team comprising of members of Head Office & West Rand Crime Intelligence, the Hawks, Ekurhuleni Tactical Team and private security responded. In the first of three take down operations the team arrested two suspects in a VW Polo and seized one firearm at Bhekumuzi Masango Street in Belfast.
During a simultaneous take down a second vehicle was intercepted about 20kms away from the targeted post office and three suspects traveling in a Toyota bakkie were arrested on the N4 highway and they were found in possession of three firearms.
In a third simultaneous take down, another VW Polo was intercepted by an Ekurhuleni team in which two suspects were arrested. They were found with rounds of live ammunition for heavy caliber weapons as well as a set of Free State number plates hidden under one of the seats of the car.
The four firearms were found with the serial numbers filed.
The National Commissioner of Police, General Khehla John Sitole welcomed the take down of the alleged CIT suspects. “The proactive response to dealing with serious and violent crimes is what the SAPS strives towards”, said General Sitole.
These suspects are likely to face charges of conspiracy to commit a robbery, unlawful possession of arms and ammunition and/or possession of vehicles suspect to be stolen.
The SAPS continues to appeal to anyone who has any information on criminal activity to please call our Crime Stop number 086 00 10111 or information may also be communicated via the MySAPS App.
All information will be treated with strictest confidence and callers may remain anonymous.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
