A Fidelity Cash Solutions van en route to service an ATM in Bekkersdal was brutally attacked in the West Rand at approximately 09:22 this morning by a large number of heavily armed suspects.

According to Wahl Bartmann, Fidelity Services Group CEO, the van was initially brought to a standstill when it was rammed by a red BMW.  Heavily armed suspects opened fire on the Fidelity Cash Solutions bakkie following the van, before placing explosives on the truck to access the cash.

Bartmann says the driver of the bakkie attempted to reverse away from the scene but was not successful and was fatally wounded. Another Fidelity officer was also wounded when the explosives were detonated on the van.  

An unknown female was caught in the cross fire and fatally wounded together with two traffic officers who also sustained severe injuries.

“This level of violence is completely unacceptable. It is believed there were as many as 18 perpetrators and six vehicles used during this robbery. Our teams did not have a chance,” says Bartmann.  The suspects made off with cash and one firearm was taken.

Bartmann says he is deeply saddened by the senseless loss of life and appealed to the authorities to step up as the violence continues to escalate.