A failed cash-in-transit heist (CIT) turned into a scene of horror and destruction on Tuesday morning, 7 May, in Thokoza, on the East Rand. An attempted bombing of a Fidelity cash van ended in chaos, with one suspect losing a leg in a botched explosion and residents left traumatised by the gunfire and blast that rocked the Khumalo Street area.
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Botched Cash Van Attack in Phola Park Extension 5
Just after 8:00 AM, a silver BMW rammed into a Fidelity cash van at the intersection of Khumalo and Murubisi streets in Phola Park Extension 5, triggering a dramatic sequence of events. A group of at least 10 armed suspects reportedly launched the attack to detonate explosives and access the van’s contents.
However, the plan quickly unraveled. One of the suspects exited the vehicle carrying live explosives and attempted to plant them near the cash van. Moments later, the device detonated prematurely, resulting in the suspect suffering a severe injury, including the apparent loss of a leg.
Gruesome Aftermath Captured on Camera
Graphic images circulated widely on social media shortly after the blast. They showed what appeared to be a severed leg, still wearing a sock, lying near the bombed vehicle. Eyewitnesses described scenes of scattered human remains, dust clouds, and chaotic gunfire that continued after the initial explosion.
A nearby resident recounted the terrifying moment:
“At first, it sounded like a crash. Then the gunshots started, followed by a massive explosion that shook our house. When we looked outside, it was full of people, dust, and the van. We heard someone lost their leg right there.”
Another witness, a man doing maintenance nearby, described how a white Volkswagen Golf GTI arrived at the scene and the men inside opened fire.
“They tried to help with the heist. But after the bomb went off and injured their own man, they grabbed him and fled. They didn’t manage to take any money.”
Police Confirm No Money Stolen, Investigation Ongoing
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed the incident. “The cash van was rammed by a silver BMW. Preliminary investigations show that one suspect was seriously injured in the explosion,” she stated.
Sibeko added that the BMW used in the initial ramming was abandoned at the scene, while the rest of the suspects fled in three other vehicles. No arrests have been made, and no cash was stolen during the failed robbery attempt.
“We are investigating a case of armed robbery and attempted murder. Crime scene investigators are collecting evidence,” Sibeko told media.
Fidelity Security Responds to the Attack
Fidelity Services Group CEO Wahl Bartmann confirmed that the company’s security officers only suffered minor injuries during the attack. He added that forensic evidence at the scene suggested the injured suspect had tried to activate the explosive device, which detonated unexpectedly before he could flee.
Community in Shock After Violent Explosion
The explosion and gunfire left the Thokoza community rattled. Residents expressed deep concern about their safety, especially as such attacks appear to rise.
One woman said, “This scared me a lot. It shows that people are willing to kill or die for money, even if it puts everyone else’s life in danger.”
Another resident echoed similar fears:
“We live near the crime scene. The blast shook our home. We’re traumatised by what we saw.”
Thokoza Becomes Latest Target in Cash-In-Transit Heist Wave
The attempted bombing in Thokoza is part of a growing trend of Cash-In-Transit heists across Gauteng, where gangs often use military-style tactics, explosives, and multiple getaway vehicles. These crimes not only target money but also terrorize communities, damage infrastructure, and stretch police resources.
While no fatalities have been confirmed in this incident, the severe injury and gruesome aftermath serve as a grim reminder of the risks and violence tied to CIT robberies.
Key Facts: Thokoza Cash-in-Transit Heist Attempt
- Date of incident: Tuesday, 6 May 2024
- Location: Khumalo Street, Thokoza (East Rand)
- Target: Fidelity cash van
- Suspects: At least 10 armed individuals
- Weapons used: Guns and explosives
- Injuries: 1 suspect severely injured, leg lost
- Money stolen: None
- Status: Investigation ongoing, no arrests
Stay tuned as this developing story unfolds. Authorities continue to appeal for public assistance in identifying the suspects. Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
