Two Suspects Captured and Stolen Cash Recovered Within Hours of Heist

Welkom – Authorities have arrested two suspects and seized a large sum of cash just three hours following a violent cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery in Welkom.

As reported by The Bulrushes, the incident took place around 12:40 PM on Saturday, 23 May 2026, at Cash and Carry in Welkom while security personnel were collecting cash from the store.

The security guards were unexpectedly ambushed by six armed attackers 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 team, bulletproof vests, and a handheld radio.

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

Acting on this intelligence, police tracked the suspects to a residence in Welkom by around 15:00.

A gunfight broke out between law enforcement officers and the suspects upon their arrival.

While some suspects fled the scene, two identified assailants, already wanted for similar CIT crimes, were taken into custody.

During the operation, officers recovered a significant quantity of stolen cash and 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 their successful capture of the two CIT robbery suspects and the recovery of the stolen funds.

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

“We commend the courage and commitment of all those involved.

“The suspects who managed to escape are actively being pursued, and it’s just a matter of time before they are caught,” 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 goods.