Seven gunmen robbed the South African Revenue Service’s (Sars) customs offices in Durban on Thursday, escaping with R70 000 in cash, the service said.
Staff members who had been held up in the cash hall were being treated for shock.
Sars commissioner Pravin Gordhan, who happened to be in Durban, visited Customs House within 45 minutes of being informed of the 8.45am robbery to reassure staff.
No one was hurt in the incident.
Staff and members of the public took down the registration numbers of the two getaway vehicles and police have launched a manhunt for the gunmen.
Customs House, a landmark building on Victoria Embankment at the entrance to the harbour, is primarily used by members of the public for import- and export-related activities, most particularly forwarding and clearing agents.
From January 17 next year, these operations — including the cash hall — will relocate to Albany House, just two blocks south on Victoria Embankment.
The new building, which is currently being renovated, offers increased security and convenience for customers.
Customs House will remain a Sars office, housing customs enforcement and anti-smuggling operations.
In the interim, security at Customs House will be tightened in light of the incident.
The incident also highlighted the benefits of Sars offices operating in a cash-free environment, a transition currently being promoted by Sars. — Sapa