The incident unfolded at approximately 06:00 on Friday (3/4) along OR Tambo Road. According to police reports, three security guards were travelling from Bloemfontein towards Reddersburg when they were ambushed by a group of heavily armed suspects.

It is alleged that around ten to 12 suspects, dressed in blue overalls and balaclavas, carried out the attack. The group reportedly used a silver Mercedes-Benz and a white Toyota Fortuner during the heist. 

Service pistols

Despite the nature of the attack, no cash was taken. Instead, the suspects robbed the guards of three loaded service pistols before fleeing the scene.

Free State Hawks spokesperson, Fikiswa Matoti, confirmed a vehicle from the traffic department passing near the scene was also targeted. The driver, a traffic officer, sustained a gunshot wound and is in the hospital. Police officers in the vicinity came under fire as well, with one member sustaining minor injuries.

The cash-in-transit on the OR Tambo Road, Bloemfontein. Photo supplied

Free State MEC for community safety, roads and transport, Jabu Mbalula, expressed shock and outrage over the incident. He reiterated that the suspects, some wearing disguises, stole firearms and forced the CIT crew to lie down in a nearby field before making their escape.

The traffic officer’s vehicle was later found abandoned about 500m from the scene. Mbalula condemned the attack and assured residents law enforcement agencies are working around the clock to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Meanwhile, motorists are urged to exercise caution on the R30 between Theunissen and Welkom near Gasplant, where water is affecting road conditions. Authorities have advised drivers to reduce speed, obey temporary traffic signs, and follow instructions from officials deployed in the area.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg

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