CIT Suspect Linked To Heist Via DNA Faces More Time Behind Bars

A 24-year-old suspect, Thomas Zwiafana Nethavhani, is set to stay behind bars longer after appearing before the Mutale Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo.

Nethavhani is accused of being involved in a dramatic cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery in 2023 and faces charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit robbery with aggravating circumstances, and defeating the ends of justice.

2023 CIT Robbery

The charges stem from a daring robbery in July 2023, when G4S Cash Solutions personnel arrived at Tshilamba Mutale complex to collect cash. Upon learning that there wasn’t enough money for collection, a G4S guard returned to his vehicle and was ambushed by two armed suspects.

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The suspects stole an empty cross-pavement carrier, a firearm, and 14 rounds of ammunition. They fired shots at the armoured truck before fleeing in a red BMW, leaving the G4S team shaken.

DNA Breakthrough Links Suspect to Crime

The case, initially registered at Mutale police station, was handed over to the Hawks’ Musina-based serious organised crime investigation unit. Investigators later discovered the stolen carrier in bushes near Thengwe-Tsithuthuni village.

Nethavhani’s involvement was confirmed through DNA evidence, marking a major breakthrough in the investigation.

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Law enforcement agents conducted an operation, “Robust Tracing,” to locate and arrest Nethavhani. He was apprehended last week at Thengwe-Vuvha village, outside Thohoyandou, by a team consisting of the Hawks and the Thohoyandou Tactical Response Team.

Nethavhani has been charged with CIT robbery, attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice, and conspiracy to commit robbery.

Hawks Commend Investigation Team

Provincial Hawks head, Major General Gopz Govender, applauded the relentless efforts of the investigative team.

“The meticulous work of our officers showcases the unwavering commitment to bringing organized crime perpetrators to justice,” said Govender.

Nethavhani remains in police custody, with the case postponed to Wednesday for further proceedings.

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