By STAFF REPORTER

4 November 2026 – Two suspected cash-in-transit (CIT) robbers were fatally wounded during a shootout with police after an intelligence-driven operation foiled an alleged robbery in the Swartdam area, near Brits, in the North West. The incident occurred at approximately 9:50pm on 3 November 2026, when members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Tactical Response Team (TRT) acted on intelligence about a suspected cash-in-transit robbery planned in the Bojanala area.

According to the North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburgh, the police proceeded to the Swartdam area in Moeka Vuma, where they spotted suspects who allegedly matched the descriptions provided. Myburgh said the suspects reportedly opened fire on the police, prompting officers to retaliate.

“During the exchange of gunfire, two suspects were fatally wounded at the scene, while a third sustained injuries and fled into nearby bushes. The injured suspect was discovered during daylight hours and transported to a local hospital, where he remains under police guard.

“The police also recovered an AK-47 assault rifle and a DM4 rifle. Explosives were found inside a Toyota double-cab bakkie allegedly used in the planned robbery,” she said.

Myburgh further said the operation involved members of the Tactical Response Team from Brits, Klerksdorp, Rustenburg and Mahikeng. Following the shooting, she added that, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) was activated to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident in accordance with its oversight mandate.

“The operation demonstrated the police’s commitment to disrupting organised criminal activities and protecting communities. We commend the members of the Tactical Response Team for their swift response and operational vigilance, which resulted in the foiling of this suspected cash-in-transit robbery.

“Police officers remain committed to protecting communities and disrupting the activities of criminal syndicates. We will not allow criminals to undermine the safety and security of our communities,” said Myburgh.

She said those who choose to attack police officers must know that members will defend themselves and uphold the law. Myburgh said they will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations to ensure that those involved in serious and violent crimes are brought to justice.

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