GAUTENG – Gauteng police have launched a comprehensive manhunt for multiple armed suspects following a deadly cash-in-transit heist attempt in Extension 16, Mamelodi East. The violent incident, which took place on Monday, 07 September 2026, resulted in the fatal wounding of two security guards and left a third hospitalized with gunshot injuries.
According to a Gauteng police spokesperson, the suspects were traveling in two vehicles—described as a white or cream Volkswagen Polo and a maroon Volkswagen Polo—when they attacked the security personnel who were transporting cash. During the assault, the two guards, aged 34 and 41, were fatally wounded. A third guard sustained gunshot wounds and was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.
A shootout subsequently erupted between law enforcement and the suspects. While a state vehicle sustained damage during the exchange of fire, no police members were injured. The suspects also set a Mercedes-Benz vehicle alight during their escape, resulting in its complete destruction.
Following the confrontation, police discovered explosives planted beneath the targeted cash-in-transit vehicle. The Police Explosives Unit was promptly summoned to the scene and successfully secured the hazardous materials. Authorities confirmed that no cash was stolen during the attempted robbery. Additionally, two firearms belonging to the security company—a rifle and a 9mm pistol—were recovered at the scene.
Acting on received intelligence, members of the Crime Intelligence and K9 Unit conducted a follow-up operation that led to the arrest of a 21-year-old bystander. The individual was found in possession of a rifle allegedly stolen from the crime scene and is currently facing charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The police have officially opened dockets encompassing two counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder, attempted cash-in-transit robbery, and malicious damage to property. A Gauteng police spokesperson confirmed that the investigation remains highly active, with authorities continuing to pursue all available leads to identify and apprehend the remaining suspects involved in the attack.
