Watch: Renowned SA musician misses cash-in-transit blast
Ernie Smith believes that mechanical failures and 'Grace' helped him avoid the centre of a cash-in-transit attack on the N2.
ERNIE Smith, a renowned South African jazz-fusion guitarist, singer, and producer, believes a series of unexplained vehicle problems may have saved his life after he narrowly avoided being caught in a violent cash-in-transit attack on Monday evening.
The robbery transpired on the N2 north bound near Chesterville, just outside the Durban CBD, and led to residents looting money on the ground.
Recalling the day, Smith said his vehicle problem began earlier in the week while he was travelling on a freeway heading towards Durban South.
Also read: Residents loot after cash-in-transit heist on the N2
“As I passed a man standing near the road barrier, one of my car’s tyres suddenly burst, forcing me to stop. I later replaced the tyre with a brand new one.”
Hours later, while preparing to leave for rehearsals, Smith discovered that the newly fitted tyre was inexplicably flat, despite showing no visible damage. After having it checked at a garage, mechanics reportedly found no puncture or fault, and Smith said he continued with his journey.
While driving near the Gateway area, traffic suddenly came to a standstill. The Durban-born artist remembers seeing motorists abandoning their vehicles as police activity escalated nearby.
Moments later, he said he heard a powerful explosion, followed by sustained gunfire. It became clear to Smith that a cash-in-transit vehicle was under attack.
“Multiple explosions occurred as drivers attempted to flee the scene, some reversing into oncoming traffic in panic. I managed to escape the area without injury.”
Smith said he thanked the Lord for protecting him.
“It could only be him, I am thankful for his Grace. I can’t explain the tyre situation, as when I returned home, I noticed that the tyre was again flat. Upon inspection the following morning, the tyre appeared intact, with no puncture or air leak detected.”
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