Durban - Police have launched a manhunt for three suspects who were involved in a cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery in Church Street in the Pietermaritzburg CBD on Monday afternoon.
Security company Mi7 National Group director Colin David said that at around midday, the Emergency Medical Services and Armed Response units were dispatched after reports of a shooting in the Pietermaritzburg CBD.
According to David, a cross-pavement robbery had occurred, with suspects targeting a cash-in-transit vehicle.
“A shoot-out ensued (between the guards and suspects), resulting in a CIT guard and a female bystander being shot. The guard sustained critical injuries and was stabilised before being transported to hospital by Mi7 medics.
“The woman sustained moderate injuries in the crossfire and was taken to hospital by another service provider,” he said.
He said one suspect was shot dead in the altercation.
“It is believed the other suspects fled on foot. It is unclear if anything was stolen at this stage,” said David.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said a 72-hour activation plan has been instituted to hunt down three suspects who fled.
“Reports indicate that a cash security guard had just collected money from a store and was on his way to the armoured vehicle when he was allegedly accosted by one armed suspect,” he said.
Netshiunda said a shoot-out ensued between the guards and the suspects and one suspect was fatally wounded.
“One security guard sustained a gunshot wound and was taken to hospital for immediate medical attention. Another bystander was also reported injured when a stray bullet went through a private vehicle,” he said.
He said three suspects fled the scene and police are appealing to anyone who might have information about their whereabouts to contact their nearest police station or the crime stop number 08600 10111. Tip-offs can also be relayed anonymously via the MySAPS app.