Sinenhlanhla Masilela|Published
Three men believed to be in their 20's were killed during a shootout after a cash-in-transit heist near Umlazi Mega City in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday.
ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson said a security vehicle was reportedly bombed multiple times, with the explosions allegedly heard by residents in the surrounding Umlazi area.
“The incident occurred just outside Umlazi Mega City, as you come off the M4 Southern Freeway towards Mega City, or from Mega City going towards the M4 in the direction of Durban Central,” Jamieson said.
According to Jamieson, the roadway had been closed to traffic when paramedics arrived, while several people were allegedly attempting to loot money scattered across the ground.
“Paramedics were shown to where two security guards had sustained minor to moderate injuries, and our teams immediately began treating them,” he said.
While medical personnel were attending to the injured guards, they were informed that alleged suspects had also been shot and required emergency medical assistance.
“Multiple ALS Paramedics Advanced Life Support units, as well as ambulances, were dispatched to assist,” Jamieson said.
He confirmed that three men had sustained fatal injuries as a result of gunshot wounds.
“I can confirm that three people, all males believed to be in their 20s, have sustained fatal injuries as a result of gunshot wounds. It is alleged that these are suspects in this case; however, this cannot be confirmed,” he said.
Jamieson added that the two security guards had been treated at the scene and were expected to be transported to a nearby hospital for further medical care.
The roadway remained closed while SAPS conducted its investigation, with motorists urged to avoid the affected area.
“The roadway remains closed whilst SAPS investigate this and will be for quite some time. I’d advise motorists to avoid this area at all costs,” Jamieson said.
The circumstances surrounding the alleged cash-in-transit heist, the reported explosions and the shooting remain under investigation.
The identities and alleged involvement of the three deceased men have not been confirmed.
*This is a developing story.
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