Getaway car leads Hawks to suspects after dramatic Mpumalanga cash heist - IOL

Two men were arrested in Mpumalanga in connection with an alleged cash-in-transit robbery at Hazyview Mall.

Police have arrested two men linked to a cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery at Hazyview Mall in Mpumalanga on Thursday.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI)- Hawks also seized the getaway vehicle believed to have been used in the September 19, 2026 robbery. During the incident, an undisclosed amount of cash was stolen, and a security officer sustained injuries. Police investigations led the team to an area known as Marite, where the first suspect was traced.

“Although he was initially not found at his residence, further leads directed the team to another address, where he was located and questioned. During questioning, the suspect allegedly provided information linking another individual to the crime,” Police said.

“The getaway vehicle was found parked outside his premises. The vehicle bore marks and a dent consistent with details documented during the initial investigation and was subsequently seized as part of the ongoing investigation,” police said.

Police said the men, aged 32 and 38, face charges of cash-in-transit robbery and are expected to appear in court once administrative procedures have been completed. 

The Mpumalanga Provincial Head of the DPCI, Major General Nico Gerber, welcomed the arrests, describing them as a significant step towards bringing those responsible for the robbery to justice. He reaffirmed the Hawks’ commitment to pursuing criminal networks through intelligence-driven investigations and collaboration with law enforcement partners.

“Police remain resolute in their mandate to investigate serious and organised crime, follow every lead and ensure that those suspected of criminal activities are brought before the courts to answer for their alleged actions,” Gerber said.

The arrests were made by the Hawks’ Nelspruit Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI), in collaboration with the SAPS National Intervention Unit (NIU) and Crime Intelligence.

According to police reports, between January and mid-August 2026, almost 120 CIT robberies occurred, predominantly in Gauteng (42%) and KZN (23%). Police said that in 32% of incidents, no cash was taken, although deaths, firearm theft, equipment losses, and vehicle hijackings still occurred.