Robber killed in shoot-out

2003-12-22 13:59

Cape Town - A would-be armed robber was fatally wounded in the head, when the tables were turned on him and his cohorts during an attempted cash-in-transit heist in Cape Town on Monday.

Police said the drama started at approximately 08:15, when two BMWs boxed in a Standard Bank security vehicle on the R300 near Mitchells Plain's AZ Berman exit.

The two BMWs - one in front and the two ramming into the security van from behind - forced the van to a standstill.

"Six occupants, armed with R5- and AK47 assault rifles, fired at the security vehicle. Four security guards returned fire, fatally wounding one attacker in the head," said Captain Billy Jones.

Jones said the other five robbers fled on foot into nearby bushes and houses on either side of the road.

When police arrived on the scene they recovered an AK47 assault rifle.

They searched the surrounding area, and with the assistance of the local community, apprehended a 35-year-old suspect in possession of an R5.

Jones said the driver of the security vehicle was wounded in the leg and hand.

The three other security guards sustained minor injuries.

He said no money was taken and a case of attempted armed robbery was opened.

The Serious and Violent Crimes Unit was investigating the case, and anybody with information was asked to contact 021 9359600.

- SAPA