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Transport Minister, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has become a victim of rampant crime in South Africa.
Police said an investigation is underway into the circumstances surrounding a robbery that took place on Wednesday on the N3 between Vosloorus and Heidelberg involving the Minister’s detail.
In a brief statement, the Department of Transport said the tyres of the Minister's car were punctured by spikes, bringing the car to a stop.
The incident took place in the early hours of Monday morning when the Minister was en route to Pretoria, between N3 Vosloorus and Heidelberg.
Department spokesperson, Collen Msibi, said both the minister and her dedicated SAPS protection team emerged from this incident unharmed and safe.
"Minister Chikunga remains committed to fulfilling her government responsibilities and is deeply grateful for the overwhelming support she has received from her fellow government colleagues and the people of South Africa," he said.
Meanwhile, national police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said the robbers took personal belongings and two SAPS service pistols.
She said a manhunt has since been launched following "this unprecedented incident."
Mathe reiterated that 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," she said.
