MBOMBELA – An armed gang attempted to rob a cash-in-transit vehicle on Monday morning at The Grove Riverside, only to escape with an empty bag.
According to police spokesman, Capt Dawie Pretorius, who was on the scene, they are searching for four suspects who escaped in a silver-grey Chevrolet Spark. The incident occurred at about 08:32.
The Spark was parked outside the offices of the municipality at the centre. A G4S cash-in-transit vehicle stopped next to the entrance. Two security guards got out and one remained in the vehicle. Three armed suspects climbed out the Spark and held the security officers at gunpoint.
They grabbed the bag and a firearm. The suspects fled with an empty bag as the security personal had not yet filled it. An unknown number of shots were exchanged between the suspects and guards.
Security officers attempted to pursue the suspects but they got away. A Netcare 911 ambulance happened to be in the vicinity. Paramedics witnessed the crime and notified the police. The police arrived and cordoned off the scene. Forensic investigators collected evidence, including shell casings. Pretorius said nobody was hit during the gunfight.
According to Ms Athlenda Mathe of Netcare 911, after police had secured the scene, paramedics assessed the situation. No one was injured or wounded.
“A hat was left at the scene by one of the suspects. We will be taking it for DNA testing,” said Pretorius. The armoured vehicle had a number of bullet holes in it. Bossies Community Justice (BCJ) also responded. Mr Albert Gryvenstein said the operation was well planned. “It was unusual to use a Spark as a getaway vehicle,” he said.
An eyewitness said she was standing outside when she saw the armed men jump out of the vehicle. She thought it was strange as the Spark had a GP number plate.”I was terrified when I saw the first man get out the vehicle and point a firearm. He was wearing green pants and a charcoal-coloured jersey. It happened so fast. It was a really scary experience. It was the last thing anyone expected to happen on a Monday morning at work,” she said.
Grove Riverside Shopping Centre assistant manager, Ms Jessica Gunn, said they immediately notified their security company which rushed to the scene. She claimed that security was normally vigilant in reporting suspicious vehicles in the area. “We do want to assure shoppers of their safety,” she said.
Watch video here : Update: Video of cash-in-transit gang escaping with empty bag
