An analysis of the use of modus operandi as an identification technique in the investigation of cash-in-transit robberies in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to analyse the use of modus operandi as an identification technique in investigating Cash-In-Transit robberies in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Modus operandi information can be paramount to the investigators during Cash-In-Transit robbery investigations. The study utilized the qualitative research approach with a non-probability sampling method. The case study research design was selected, and semi-structured interviews were utilised as the data collection instrument in this study. The study employed the spiral data analysis method to generate the findings from the data collected. This study was conducted within the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), with investigating officers responsible for investigating Cash-In-Transit (CIT) robbery cases under Serious Organised Crime Investigation Units (SOCIU) in Limpopo Province, South Africa. A representative purposive sample of fifteen (15) investigating officers attached to Polokwane SOCIU, Phalaborwa SOCIU, and Musina SOCIU was utilized for data collection using the purposive sampling method in this study. In this study, the use of modus operandi (MO) as a technique to combat and fight against Cash-In-Transit robbery cases is investigated. The study findings indicate that CIT robbery is challenging in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Furthermore, the nature and extent to which CIT robbery occurs in South Africa are also outlined in the study, thus making empirical and significant contributions by exploring and describing the MO used by perpetrators in the commission of CIT robberies. Based on these findings, the study proposes an integrated multidisciplinary operational approach model in response to CIT robberies as a possible practical solution to deal with CIT robberies effectively.