An Investigation on the Major Determinants of Cash-In-Transit (CIT) Heists Within the Private Security Industry in Zimbabwe

Cash-in-transit (CIT) heists involving private security companies continue to escalate in Zimbabwe, posing serious threats to public safety and economic stability. This study investigated the major determinants of CIT heists within Zimbabwe’s private security industry, focusing on Harare Metropolitan Province. Using a mixed-methods convergent parallel design underpinned by triangulation, data were collected from 49 security operatives (structured questionnaires), 178 corporate security experts (online poll survey), and 5 police investigating officers (semi-structured interviews). Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS (Version 26) and qualitative data through thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke (2006). Integration of the two strands was achieved through a joint display comparative framework. The study found that poor remuneration, weak internal control systems, and insider collusion are the primary drivers of CIT heists. The current security measures employed by private security companies — including risk assessment, armoured vehicles, personnel training, technology integration, law enforcement collaboration, emergency response protocols, and insurance — were found to be largely inadequate. Additionally, the existing legal and regulatory frameworks governing CIT operations were perceived as ineffective by 58% of respondents. The study concludes that addressing the root causes of CIT heists requires improving security guard salaries, tightening internal control systems, and creating youth employment opportunities. It recommends legislative reform, specialised training, rigorous background checks, enhanced law enforcement collaboration, and awareness campaigns to strengthen CIT security protocols in Zimbabwe.

Cash-in-Transit, CIT Heists, Private Security Industry, Zimbabwe, Collusion, Internal Controls, Remuneration

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