Police Pursue KwaZulu-Natal Heist Gang Amid Limpopo Crime Decline

Police are searching for an armed gang involved in a CIT heist on the R74 in KwaZulu-Natal, injuring two security officers. Meanwhile, Limpopo has been recognized as relatively safe, despite some crime hotspots. A significant reduction in murder rates has been attributed to community cooperation with the police.

South African police are actively pursuing an armed gang responsible for a recent cash-in-transit (CIT) heist on the R74 highway near Stanger, KwaZulu-Natal. The incident involved an ambush on a CIT vehicle, resulting in two security officers being injured—one suffering a gunshot wound while the other sustained moderate injuries. The perpetrators utilized explosives to access the stolen cash and made off with an undisclosed sum, leading to a temporary closure of the highway as investigations commenced.

In a contrasting report, Limpopo’s Deputy Police Commissioner, Jan Scheepers, has highlighted the province as one of the safest in South Africa, noting a significant reduction in major crime categories during the latter part of the 2024/2025 financial year. Despite this positive trend, the town of Thohoyandou remains a notable hotspot for serious crimes, including murder, rape, and robbery, ranking among the country’s top 30 areas for these offenses. Major-General Eddie Van der Walt, the Vhembe District Commissioner, attributes these crime spikes to the proliferation of liquor outlets, as evidenced by recent authorities closing numerous shebeens and taverns.

Despite the challenges posed by high crime rates in specific areas, Limpopo has recorded an impressive 28% decrease in murder cases, which Deputy Commissioner Scheepers believes is largely due to heightened community engagement and improved public trust in the police force. This collaborative approach aims to nurture safer environments across the province.

The South African police are intensifying efforts to locate a gang involved in a violent cash-in-transit heist, significantly impacting security personnel. In contrast, Limpopo has seen notable crime reductions, particularly in violent offenses, thanks to community support and police collaboration. The provincial response to illicit liquor venues underscores a commitment to addressing local crime hotspots while improving public safety.

Original Source: allafrica.com