PRETORIA – In an Intelligence-driven operation, 12 suspects were nabbed this morning while on their way to commit a cash-in-transit heist.

Members from the South African Police Service Flying Squad, the Hawks, and Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni Metro Police Departments responded to intelligence that a group of suspects were enroute to commit a cash-in-transit heist.

An integrated multi-disciplinary law enforcement team intercepted the alleged robbers on the N12 Soweto-bound in Gauteng near the Xavier off-ramp where they arrested the 12 men. The suspects were travelling in three sedans and they were found in possession of six handguns.

The vehicles as well as the firearms will be analysed to determine if they are stolen and/or were used in the commission of other crimes.

The possibility of more people being arrested in connection with this case cannot be ruled out.

The National Commissioner of Police, General Khehla John Sitole has been appraised on the developments of this incident. “Crime Intelligence as well as the multi-disciplinary team must be applauded for this outstanding work, said General Sitole.

The 12 suspects are likely to face charges of conspiracy to commit a robbery and possession of unlicensed arms and ammunition.

We continue to appeal to anyone who has any information on crime to contact our SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111. Callers may remain anonymous and all calls will be treated with strictest confidence.

Source: South African Police Service