This past week saw yet another cash-in-transit heist on the outskirts of Florida, and, even though this is not an unusual sight, this particular incident rocked the Roodepoort community.
The modus operandi was basically the same as all the others as the cash van was blocked off by vehicles occupied by at least 12 thugs who used explosives and rifles to get to the cash. It was also done in the usual brazen fashion; in the middle of the day on a busy stretch of road. So, what made this incident stand out?
Simple. The fact that an innocent bystander, who did not even have any involvement in this act, had to pay with his life, just because he was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Shane Williams, an employee of First Help, was only doing his job, minding his own business, when his life was cut short, leaving a huge hole, not only in the lives of his wife and children, but also in the community.
What makes this whole situation even more sad is the fact that only a day or so after this incident, three employees of the security company were arrested for their suspected involvement in the robbery, not only confirming (and strengthening) everyone’s suspicions about these heists being inside jobs, but also highlighting the fact that a family’s whole life has been turned upside down because of greedy people, with no regard for anyone else.
This incident hit very close to home, and I am sure it was not only the case for me, but for all of us. It made me realise that, even though my life and the lives of my loved ones are precious to me, this is not the case for a lot of people in our beautiful country. It has also made me realise that life is very short, and that we should treasure every moment we have with one another.
To Shane’s wife, children, friends, family and colleagues, I would like to offer my sincere condolences. It is my hope that, in time, you will find peace, and that you will be able to find a way to keep his memory alive and well.
Until next week, look out for each other and stay safe …
