Issued by: SA Communication Service
MEDIA STATEMENT BY THE DEPUTY NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE SAPD: Z LAVISA
CAPE TOWN 18 FEBRUARY 1998
ARMED ROBBERIES: CASH-IN-TRANSIT
Contrary to the general perception that armed robberies of cash-in-transit have increased dramatically over the past few months, official statistics of the SAPS, based on reported cases, reflect the opposite. The following table provides a comparison between reported cases for 1996 and 1997. (TABLE AVAILABLE ON REQUEST)
However, some of these robberies were executed in such a way that it created the impression that a new phenomenon was developing in this regard. This may be true if the specific modus operandi which was followed, is analysed.
The SAPS, however, achieved major successes in investigating the spate of robberies where large amounts of money have been involved. In the majority of these cases suspects have either been identified or arrested.
During a planning session on 12 February 1998 Murder and Robbery Units, as well as intelligence operatives, met in Pretoria to evaluate the strategies being followed in this regard. Decisions were also taken regarding new initiatives to be operationalised. Intelligence personnel will, inter alia, form a major roleplayer in these initiatives.
Perceptions have been created on the involvement of certain groupings in these robberies. The SAPS are of the opinion that such speculations are premature and it should be left to the criminal justice system to either prove or reject it.
ENQUIRIES: DIRECTOR JOSEPH NGOBENI CELL: 082 800 3672