CIT Heist sparks chaos on N2 as cash van is blown up and looted in KwaZulu-Natal

General
Micheal Olaleye
February 3, 2026
51

A cash-in-transit (CIT) heist on the N2 northbound near Chesterville in KwaZulu-Natal has once again thrown the spotlight on South Africa’s escalating armed robbery crisis, after a cash vehicle was robbed and blown up, prompting widespread looting by residents and passing motorists.

The dramatic incident unfolded on Monday evening, forcing the complete closure of the N2, disrupting traffic and triggering a major police and emergency response as authorities scrambled to secure the scene and protect injured security personnel.

Cash-in-Transit Vehicle Blown Up Near Chesterville

Emergency services confirmed that the CIT vehicle was attacked on the N2 northbound near the M7 interchange, close to Chesterville, Durban. According to ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson, emergency teams were dispatched at approximately 7pm after reports of a major explosion.

By the time paramedics arrived, the South African Police Service (SAPS) had already secured the scene, following reports that the cash vehicle had been bombed, with money scattered across the roadway.

Security Guards Injured in Explosion

Two security guards who were inside the CIT vehicle at the time of the heist were assessed by emergency responders. One guard sustained minor to moderate injuries linked to the explosion and was treated at the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital.

The second guard was assessed by paramedics and did not require extensive medical treatment. No fatalities were reported at the scene.

Residents and Motorists Seen Looting Cash

One of the most alarming aspects of the incident was the mass looting that followed the explosion. Jamieson confirmed that hundreds of members of the public, including residents from nearby informal settlements and passing motorists, were seen picking up cash scattered on the road.

Police moved swiftly to disperse the looters, secure the remaining cash, and re-establish control of the crime scene. Authorities have warned that looting at crime scenes constitutes a criminal offence and may lead to arrests as investigations continue.

N2 Completely Closed as Police Launch Investigation

Following the heist, the N2 northbound was fully closed by SAPS and Metro Police to allow bomb disposal units, forensic teams, and investigators to work safely.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes, as the scene remained active for several hours. Traffic congestion extended to surrounding routes as authorities worked to clear the debris and secure evidence.

Police have launched a full investigation to determine how the suspects carried out the attack and whether the vehicle was followed prior to the explosion.

CIT Heist Remain a Growing Threat in KwaZulu-Natal

The Chesterville incident adds to a surge in cash-in-transit heists in KwaZulu-Natal, a province that has seen repeated attacks involving explosives and heavily armed suspects.

Security experts have previously warned that CIT syndicates are becoming more organized, often using military-grade tactics, inside intelligence, and diversion methods to overwhelm security teams and delay police response.

Authorities say combating these crimes will require enhanced intelligence-driven policing, improved route planning by cash companies, and stronger public cooperation.

Police Appeal for Information

SAPS has urged anyone with information related to the CIT heist on the N2 near Chesterville to come forward. Investigators are expected to review CCTV footage, traffic cameras, and eyewitness accounts as part of the ongoing probe.

FAQ

What happened during the CIT heist on the N2?

A cash-in-transit vehicle was robbed and blown up on the N2 northbound near Chesterville in Durban, scattering cash and triggering mass looting before police intervened.

Where exactly did the incident occur?

The heist took place on the N2 northbound near the M7 interchange, close to Chesterville in KwaZulu-Natal.

Were any security guards injured?

Yes. One security guard sustained minor to moderate injuries due to the explosion and was taken to hospital. Another guard was assessed and did not need further treatment.

Why was the N2 closed?

The N2 was completely closed to allow police, bomb disposal units, and forensic teams to secure the scene and conduct investigations safely.

Were people really looting the cash?

Emergency responders confirmed that residents and passing motorists were seen looting cash from the roadway before SAPS dispersed the crowd.

Is a police investigation underway?

Yes. SAPS has launched a full investigation to identify the suspects and determine how the attack was carried out.

Are CIT heists common in KwaZulu-Natal?

KwaZulu-Natal has experienced a notable increase in CIT heists, making it one of the most affected provinces in South Africa.

Can looters face arrest?

Yes. Looting at a crime scene is a criminal offence, and authorities may pursue arrests as part of the investigation.