Five suspected cash-in-transit (CIT) robbers were shot and killed during a shootout with police following a high-speed chase in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, on Monday morning.
The deadly confrontation followed a cash-in-transit robbery near a scrap metal facility in Sidwell, close to Kempston Road and the N2 highway.
According to reports, approximately 20 heavily armed suspects, believed to have been carrying high-calibre rifles, ambushed a cash-in-transit security vehicle and opened fire.
Police responded to the robbery and identified vehicles suspected of being involved in the attack, sparking a high-speed pursuit that ended in a gun battle.
Eastern Cape Hawks spokesperson Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana confirmed that five suspects sustained fatal gunshot wounds during the confrontation.
Suspects flee with cash and stolen firearms
While five suspected robbers were killed, other members of the gang reportedly managed to escape with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Two firearms belonging to the security guards were also stolen during the robbery.
Despite the heavy gunfire, no police officers or security guards were reported injured.
Police investigations continue
Following the shootout, roads leading to and from Sidwell, off the N2 highway, were temporarily closed as police secured the area and processed the crime scene.
The incident caused disruptions in the area while investigators gathered evidence relating to the robbery and subsequent shootout.
The Hawks have indicated that further information will be released as investigations progress and additional details are verified.
