Two Robbers Caught and Stolen Cash Recovered Just Over Two Hours After Heist

Welkom – Authorities have arrested two individuals and seized a significant amount of cash within three hours of a violent cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery in Welkom.

According to a statement given to The Bulrushes, the incident took place around 12:40 on Saturday, 23 May 2026, at Cash and Carry in Welkom, as security staff were collecting cash from the store.

The security guards were reportedly ambushed by six armed criminals who forced them to the ground and demanded access to the cash van.

The assailants fled with an undisclosed amount of money, three firearms belonging to the security personnel, bulletproof vests, and a handheld radio.

Following the incident, Free State Crime Intelligence gathered information on the suspects’ whereabouts and mobilized members from the Tactical Response Team and the Public Order Policing unit.

The police acted on this intelligence and located the suspects at a residence in Welkom around 15:00.

Upon their arrival, a shootout ensued between the police and the suspects.

While some of the suspects managed to escape, two known assailants, previously wanted for similar cash-in-transit robberies, were captured.

During this operation, officers recovered a considerable amount of stolen cash along with other items linked to the robbery.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Free State, Lieutenant General Solomon Lesia, praised the multidisciplinary team led by Crime Intelligence for successfully apprehending the two CIT robbery suspects and recovering the stolen funds.

Lieutenant General Lesia remarked: “These arrests underscore the importance of intelligence-led policing and coordinated tactical responses.

“We commend all individuals involved for their bravery and commitment.

“Those suspects who evaded capture are being actively pursued, and it is only a matter of time before they are brought to justice,” added Lieutenant General Lesia.

The two suspects are expected to appear in court soon, facing charges of armed robbery, attempted murder, and possession of suspected stolen property.