2 guards killed as armed robbers attack an armored van in South Africa
Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for multiple armed suspects after an attempted cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery in Extension 16, Mamelodi East, on Monday, 7 September 2026, left two security guards dead and a third wounded.
According to the police statement, the suspects arrived in two vehicles—a white or cream Volkswagen Polo and a maroon Volkswagen Polo—and attacked security guards who were transporting cash. During the ambush, two guards, aged 34 and 41, were fatally shot. A third guard was hit by gunfire and taken to hospital for treatment.
A shootout broke out between police and the suspects. A state vehicle was damaged in the exchange, but no police officer was injured. The attackers also set a Mercedes-Benz car on fire, completely destroying it.
After securing the scene, police found explosives placed beneath the cash-in-transit vehicle. The SAPS Explosives Unit was called in and safely removed and secured the devices.
In a follow-up operation based on intelligence, Crime Intelligence and K9 Unit members arrested a 21-year-old man described as a bystander. He was found with a rifle allegedly stolen from the crime scene and now faces charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
No cash was taken in the incident. Two firearms belonging to the security company—a rifle and a 9mm pistol—were recovered at the scene.
Police have opened cases on:
- Two counts of murder
- Three counts of attempted murder
- Attempted cash-in-transit robbery
- Malicious damage to property
The investigation remains ongoing, with detectives pursuing leads to identify and arrest the remaining suspects.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Crime Stop Line on 08600 10111 or submit tips anonymously via the MySAPS App.