A manhunt is underway following a deadly suspected cash-in-transit (CIT) heist on the R56 near Richmond, outside Pietermaritzburg, on Wednesday night.
Emergency services responded to a chaotic scene, where multiple vehicles were found riddled with bullet holes and damaged from collisions, scattered across a stretch of the road.
According to ALS Paramedics spokesperson Garrith Jamieson, six people — including security personnel from the targeted cash van — sustained various injuries and were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Tragically, a taxi passenger caught in the crossfire was fatally shot and declared dead at the scene.
The R56 was completely shut down as police cordoned off the area to begin their investigation. Law enforcement agencies have since launched an intensive search for the suspects behind the brazen attack.
Authorities have appealed to the public for any information that may assist in tracking down those responsible.