Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga and Security Team Targeted in Shocking Robbery on N3 Highway
In an unexpected development, the Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga and her security team fell victim to an armed robbery on Monday while travelling on the N3 highway.
Following the incident, the South African Police Services (SAPS) swiftly launched an investigation and a manhunt in a bid to apprehend the culprits.
Details of the Highway Robbery
In an official statement released on Tuesday, SAPS provided details about the robbery. Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga and her protection unit were targeted on the N3 stretch between Vosloorus and Heidelberg. During the incident, the personal belongings of the minister and her team, the value of which remains undisclosed, were stolen. Additionally, two SAPS service pistols were taken.
Chikunga and her team had stopped to change a flat tyre which had been punctured after objects were allegedly placed on the road. According to News24, the minister’s bodyguards were changing the tyre when a gang attacked them.
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Sindisiwe Chikunga & Protection Unit Receive Support After Being Robbed
Currently, the members of the minister’s protection unit are receiving the necessary support and counselling to cope with the incident. Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has been assigned an alternative protection unit to ensure her security.
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Full SAPS Statement
Below is the full statement as published by SAPS:
Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding a robbery incident that took place on,06 November 2023, on the N3 between Vosloorus and Heidelberg.
Personal belongings and two SAPS service pistols were stolen during the incident.
Members involved are receiving necessary support and counselling.
A manhunt has since been launched following this unprecedented incident and to bring to book those responsible for this attack.
The Minister has in the meantime been provided with alternative resources.
The SAPS is committed to executing its mandate of protecting the executive of the country and community at large. VIP protection is one of the key priority areas for the SAPS and has been undertaken with excellence over the years. We endeavour to continue to serve and protect whilst observing all aspects of our VIP protection protocols.