Police Pursue Armed Gang in KwaZulu-Natal Heist; Limpopo Declared One of the Safest Provinces

Police are on the hunt for an armed gang that executed a violent cash-in-transit heist in KwaZulu-Natal, injuring two security officers. Conversely, Limpopo province has been recognized for its overall safety improvements despite certain crime hotspots, particularly in Thohoyandou, where liquor outlets have contributed to elevated crime rates. Community involvement has been emphasized as a key factor in reducing violent crime across the province.

Authorities are actively pursuing an armed gang believed to be responsible for a cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery on the R74 near Stanger in KwaZulu-Natal. The gang ambushed the CIT vehicle, resulting in injuries to two security personnel, one sustaining a gunshot wound and the other suffering moderate injuries. Prompt medical assistance was provided by IPSS Medical Rescue, and the suspects utilized explosives to access cash before fleeing the scene, leading to a temporary closure of the surrounding road for investigation.

Despite concerns regarding crime in certain areas, Limpopo province has been announced by Deputy Police Commissioner Jan Scheepers as one of the safest regions in South Africa. This declaration comes following notable reductions in 17 major crime categories over the second and third quarters of the 2024/2025 financial year. Nonetheless, Thohoyandou remains a significant hotspot for violent crimes such as murder, rape, and robbery, ranking among the top 30 problematic policing areas in the country.

The Vhembe District Commissioner, Major-General Eddie Van der Walt, attributes persistent crime levels in Thohoyandou to the rapid increase of liquor outlets, which has prompted the closure of 335 shebeens and 627 taverns in recent enforcement operations. Despite these issues, the province celebrates a remarkable 28% decrease in murder cases, with Scheepers acknowledging that heightened community engagement and the public’s trust in law enforcement contribute to this decline.

In summary, police continue their pursuit of a gang responsible for a violent cash-in-transit heist in KwaZulu-Natal. Meanwhile, Limpopo province, despite facing crime hotspots, has been commended for overall safety improvements, attributed to community involvement and effective policing strategies. The balancing act between addressing high-crime areas and acknowledging overall safety trends remains crucial for law enforcement agencies.

Original Source: allafrica.com