The N11 highway between Ladysmith and Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal was shut down on Monday following a cash-in-transit heist that saw a gang of armed assailants bomb an armored van in broad daylight, igniting chaos on the busy road. Emergency teams rushed to the scene, working to rescue a security guard believed to be trapped inside the burning vehicle.
Initial reports indicate that a group of criminals ambushed the cash van, using explosives to blast open the armored vehicle. Witnesses reported a loud explosion followed by intense gunfire as the attackers overpowered the security guards, setting the van ablaze and leaving at least one guard trapped within.
Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed the severity of the situation. “Emergency services are doing everything possible to rescue the guard, and additional police units are securing the area and pursuing the suspects,” he said. The N11 remains temporarily closed in both directions as investigators and rescue personnel work at the scene.
Authorities have launched a large-scale manhunt for the suspects, believed to have escaped in multiple vehicles. Police have established roadblocks on nearby routes in hopes of intercepting the getaway cars.
Cash-in-transit heists have become increasingly frequent in South Africa, posing risks to security personnel and road users alike. The N11, a vital route in KwaZulu-Natal, has been the site of several similar incidents in recent years, intensifying concerns over safety.
Motorists and residents have been advised to avoid the area and take alternative routes while the scene remains active. Emergency responders are providing medical support to any injured guards, and additional resources have been deployed to extinguish the fire. The condition of the trapped guard remains unknown, and authorities have yet to release further details.
Police are appealing to the public for any information that could help identify the suspects involved. A criminal investigation is underway, and further details are expected as rescue and forensic teams continue their work. Authorities are working urgently to reopen the N11, but the road closure has already caused significant disruption in the area.
