By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
Khanyisile Viola Nyalunga(29 ), a Mbombela traffic official, was remanded in custody by the Hazyview Magistrate Court on Monday, 31 July 2023 after she was arrested by Nelspruit Serious Organised Crime Investigation , NIU ( National Intervention Unit),Provincial Detectives and Nelspruit Local Criminal Record Centre on Friday, 28 July 2023.
The arrest followed after failed Cash In Transit Heist in Hazyview.
It is alleged that on Thursday, 27 July 2023, at about 13:30 an Armoured Vehicle of Fidelity Security Company was traveling from White River to Hazyview, escorted by a TSU Vehicle.
At the White River/Hazyview junction as the AV turned right into Hazyview it was rammed by a grey Mercedes-Benz sedan.
Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi said the suspects immediately started shooting at the AV, injuring the security guards who were transported to hospital for medical treatment.
Sekgotodi said the TSU also arrived and returned fire.
“According to information the suspects fled with three other sedan vehicles. Witnesses indicated that the vehicle of the accused was seen transporting the suspects and firearms which were used during the failed heist.
“The team of investigators followed up information which led to the arrest of Nyalungu after stolen vehicles which were also seen on the crime scene were found parked in her yard.
“The vehicles were confiscated and the suspect was also arrested. During preliminary investigation it was discovered that the vehicles recovered were stolen. The silver Mercedes Benz ML 250 stolen at Mhala Mpumalanga in June 2023 and Mercedes benz C class sedan stolen at Vosloorus in February 2021,” said Sekgotodi.
The suspect was charged for Conspiracy to commit crime, robbery under aggravating circumstances, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
The case against Nyalungu was postponed to Tuesday, 01 August 2023 for further bail application.
The Provincial Head Major General Gerber applauded the team for their efforts .
“ The Mpumalanga DPCI has worked tirelessly , night and day to follow up leads. This is one of many success stories,” Gerber said while sending a warning to the criminals, “ We will not stop until all of you are wearing orange overalls.”
“The public is urged to share information with the Hawks on the cash in transit robberies . All information will be dealt with in strict confidence,” added Sekgotodi.