Cape Town - The Hawks have launched a manhunt for a group of cash-in-transit robbers accused of killing a security guard over an empty cash bag.
Nearly 10 months after the horrific shooting, which led to the death of the Fidelity ADT guard at The Stables Shopping Centre in Dunoon, police have called on the public to help catch the suspects, who were caught on CCTV footage.
The incident in December shortly after 12pm resulted in one death and two bystanders wounded.
At the time, Wahl Bartmann, CEO of Fidelity Services Group, said the officer was attacked while leaving the store with an empty bag and his partner was ambushed as he tried to assist.
Bartmann said while one officer entered a retail outlet to collect the cash, the other crewman was stationed outside to protect the site.
The officer was not able to access the cash and left the premises with an empty bag and as he returned to the vehicle a suspect tried to attack him from behind.
His colleague witnessed the incident and attempted to draw his handgun but was attacked by another suspect who managed to grab his firearm and shoot the first officer on his left side.
The bullet penetrated the officer’s heart and exited his chest, getting lodged in his bulletproof vest at the back.
He further said the crewman dropped the bag and ran for cover.
The suspects snatched the empty money bag and fired several random shots recklessly into the air and crowd.
Hawks spokesperson, Zinzi Hani, says the Serious Organised Crime Investigation team have launched the manhunt for the gang of suspects.
“Preliminary reports indicated that the gang made off with one firearm, a magazine as well as rounds after holding up a security cash truck.
“A crew member was fatally wounded during an ensuing shootout between the robbers and the security detail escorting the cash truck.”
Hani said more than 10 suspects were involved in the heist and the team is investigating a case of armed robbery and murder.
Anyone with information on the identities of the men captured on CCTV cameras is asked to call Sergeant Van Reneen on 082 411 2391.
mahira.duval@inl.co.za
Cape Argus