Cash-In-Transit Robber Loses Leg in Botched Heist in Thokoza
A suspected cash-in-transit (CIT) robber lost his leg during a failed heist in the early hours of Tuesday morning in Thokoza, Ekurhuleni.
Heist Turns Tragic at Phola Park
According to police reports, a group of at least 10 heavily armed suspects attempted to bomb a cash van at the corner of Khumalo and Murubisi streets in Phola Park Extension 5.
The assailants reportedly used a silver BMW to ram into the van in a bid to access the money.
One of the suspects allegedly exited the vehicle carrying live explosives and tried to detonate them near the cash van.
The explosives exploded in his hands before he could get clear, reportedly blowing off one of his legs and killing him instantly.
Leg Blown Off in Failed Explosion
Gauteng police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed the incident, revealing that one suspect suffered a severe injury, believed to be the loss of a leg, due to the explosion.
Disturbing images from the scene showing a dislocated leg near the bombed van have since gone viral on social media.
“The vehicle used in the ramming was left behind. Preliminary investigations indicate that one suspect sustained a serious injury during the explosion,” Sibeko told IOL News.
Suspects Flee Empty-Handed
Despite the violent attempt, no cash was taken during the heist. The remaining suspects fled the scene in three separate vehicles, abandoning the silver BMW used to ram the cash van.
Eyewitnesses claimed the group fled with what looked like a “lifeless body” of the injured suspect, though police have not confirmed whether the man is dead or alive.
No one has been arrested yet. Meanwhile, investigations are currently underway.
“No arrests have been made. The investigation is ongoing,” said Sibeko.