Armed robbers used explosives in an attack on a cash van in Jakes Gerwel Drive on Monday.
The robbers ambushed the van before the Philippi turn-off just after 8am. The men fled with an undisclosed amount of cash.
According to police spokeswoman, Colonel Brenda Muridili, the police’s National Intervention Unit (NIU) responded swiftly, resulting in a shootout between the robbers and the police. No injuries were reported.
“The suspects fled the scene in four vehicles and left a suspected stolen grey BMW at the scene,” Colonel Muridili said.
Acting national commissioner Lieutenant General Sindile Mfazi, said the NIU’s swift reaction had prevented the robbers from taking bags of money. They reportedly only fled the scene with some of the scattered bank notes.
“We have declared that the high density stabilisation operations, launched earlier this month, will utilise medium to high risk operatives hence the quick response by the NIU.
“We will continue to hunt down the perpetrators that continue to threaten the authority of the state,” Lieutenant General Mfazi said.
The Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigation is investigating the case.
Anyone with information about the crime can contact SAPS Crime Stop at 08600 10111.