A high-stakes cash-in-transit (CIT) robbery brought the N2 southbound in Durban to a violent standstill early this morning on Wednesday. The attack,left two security guards wounded and has caused massive traffic congestion across the southern parts of the city.
The ambush unfolded just after 05:30 AM during the early morning commute. According to ALS Paramedics, a gang of heavily armed suspects intercepted a CIT vehicle.
Eyewitnesses reported a “war zone” atmosphere as the suspects opened fire with high-caliber rifles before using explosives to blast open the van. Debris from the explosion was scattered across both sides of the freeway.
Casualties and emergency response
First responders arrived to find a scene of chaos. Two security officials had been shot multiple shots:
- Airlifted: One guard sustained critical gunshot wounds. A Netcare 911 aeromedical helicopter landed directly on the N2 to airlift him to a specialist trauma hospital.
- Hospiltalised: A second guard was stabilised on-site by Advanced Life Support paramedics for serious injuries before being transported by ambulance.
- Motorists: While many drivers were forced to abandon their vehicles or duck for cover, no civilian injuries have been confirmed at this stage.
Traffic alert and road closures
The N2 southbound is currently closed at the M7 Edwin Swales (Solomon Mahlangu Drive) off-ramp. Authorities expect the closure to remain in place for several hours while the SAPS Explosives Unit and forensic investigators process the site.
Alternatives routes:
- M4 Southern Freeway: Best alternative for those heading toward Amanzimtoti.
- South Coast Road: Heavy congestion expected; use with caution.
- Higginson Highway: Use as a bypass, but expect delays in the Chatsworth and Queensburgh areas.
Ongoing investigation
The South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks are currently on the scene. No arrests have been made, and the suspects are believed to have fled in multiple high-performance getaway vehicles. The amount of cash taken remains undisclosed as the investigation continues.