Story summary:
- Five suspects killed in a shootout with private security.
- Thirteen firearms recovered, including seven AK47s and two R5 rifles.
- The suspects were allegedly planning a cash-in-transit robbery.
- Police were handling an active scene at the time of the report.
Five people were shot dead in a shootout during a cash-in-transit heist in Khayelitsha on Monday evening.
UPDATE: Shortly after this story was published, SAPS confirmed that the death toll in the Khayelitsha cash-in-transit take-down operation has risen to eight. “The eight suspected robbers were allegedly on their way to commit a CIT robbery in the area. 13 firearms have been seized including 7 AK47s, 2 R5s , 1 x R4, 2 x 9mm guns,” police confirmed.
Khayelitsha cash-in-transit heist latest updates
The suspects were allegedly planning a cash-in-transit heist when they were confronted by members of a private security company.
During the confrontation, 13 firearms were recovered, including seven AK47s and two R5 rifles.
In a statement issued by SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Matte, the police disclosed that the scene was still active at the time of reporting.
“Western Cape police have recovered 13 firearms at a house in Khayelitsha. These include 7 AK47s and 2 R5 rifles. Five suspects have been shot and killed during a confrontation with police. The criminals were allegedly planning a cash-in-transit robbery. ACTIVE SCENE,” Matte stated.
As the police continue their investigation, the community remains on edge following the violent clash.
Gugulethu attempted hijacking
In related news, an off-duty law enforcement officer was attacked outside his home in Gugulethu on Saturday night in what appeared to be an attempted hijacking.
The officer’s wife reported that multiple rounds were fired during the attack, two of which struck the 40-year-old officer. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital where he is currently in stable condition.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith condemned the attack and urged the public to come forward with any information.
“This callous attack cannot be condoned. It comes just a week after our annual Remembrance Service, and almost a year to the day that we lost another Law Enforcement officer. The City will support the South African Police Service in their investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to book,” Smith stated.
The suspects involved in the incident are still at large and considered highly dangerous.
