Bailed CIT Robbery Suspects Caught In Fiery N12 Shootout After Bombing Another Van

Five suspects—previously released on bail for cash-in-transit (CIT) robberies—were re-arrested after a dramatic shootout with police and private security forces on the N12. The suspects were part of a group of at least 11 who carried out a violent robbery on a CIT van in Ekangala, Tshwane, on Wednesday.

The gang used three vehicles in the heist, including a BMW which they used to ram the van before bombing it and making off with an undisclosed amount of cash.

Gauteng police spokesperson Lt-Col Mavela Masondo confirmed: “The suspects used a BMW to ram the cash-in-transit van. The suspects then bombed the van and took an undisclosed amount of cash before speeding off in different cars.”

Police Respond Swiftly as Suspects Flee

Officers from the Gauteng Highway Patrol spotted two of the getaway vehicles—a silver Mercedes-Benz and a silver Mazda CX3—and immediately gave chase. What followed was a tense high-speed pursuit along the N12, during which the suspects opened fire on law enforcement.

“While on the N12, the suspects started shooting at the police and they returned fire,” said Masondo. “One of the getaway cars was chased until the driver lost control. The suspects jumped out of the car and ran into a mielie field while shooting at the police.”

With support from private security teams, the police launched a coordinated manhunt, eventually arresting five suspects. Inside the abandoned getaway car, officers recovered more than 100 rounds of ammunition.

CIT Robbers Arrested Again

Authorities were stunned to discover that all five arrested suspects—aged between 35 and 50—had previously been granted bail for other CIT-related cases in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo.

They are now facing new charges, including robbery, attempted murder, and illegal possession of ammunition. The suspects are expected to appear in court on Monday.

Meanwhile, the search continues for the remaining suspects who managed to escape during the chaos.

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