South Africa: Three ATM Bombers Arrested

Three suspects believed to be linked to ATM bombings in Gauteng were arrested in Thembisa on Saturday by the police's tactical response team.

Police discovered dye-stained money, explosives, four firearms, and ammunition in their possession, according to Brig Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson.

“Police were acting on intelligence-driven information when they identified the first suspect. 

"The 44-year-old was cornered and his vehicle was searched. Dye-stained money was found in the boot of his vehicle,” Mathe said. 

She reported that two additional suspects, a Mozambican man, 28, and a 35-year-old Lesotho national, were detained at a house in the same neighbourhood.

“They too were found with dye-stained money as well as unlicensed firearms and ammunition as well as explosives.”

Lt. Gen. Tebello Mosikili, the acting national commissioner of police, stated that police are mobilizing all available resources to crack down on serious and violent crimes.

“Well done to the Ekurhuleni and Tshwane TRT for successfully tracking down these criminals.

“Evidence in their possession indicates to us we have the right suspects who have been involved in a spate of ATM bombings.

“Our communities are also cautioned not to accept or pick up dye-stained money as these monies have no value and they also may be investigated as being part of these syndicates,” said Mosikili.

The three men, according to Mathe, will appear in the Thembisa magistrate's court on Monday to answer to charges of having dye-stained cash, unlicensed firearms and ammunition, and illegal explosives in their possession.