Seven suspects nabbed after a tip-off of a planned ATM bombing near Tzaneen
Alleged ATM bomb suspects taken into custody after police followed a tip-off.
Seven suspects were arrested on Monday after the police (Tzaneen cluster tracking team) received a tip-off about suspects planning an ATM bombing in Lephepane village, under Maake policing area.
“The intelligence driven joint operation was conducted after information was received about a planned ATM bombing which resulted in suspects being arrested. Illegal firearms, ammunition and explosives were confiscated,” said Brig Motlalefela Mojapelo.
The suspects were driving a silver Audi which was parked next to the ATM. When police arrived, they drove off and escaped.
“Police followed the tracks of the suspects and the suspects were arrested at their hideout in Bokgoga village,” he added.
During the arrest, police found one firearm and ammunition, blasting batteries, a denoting battery, an undisclosed amount of cash, balaclavas and gloves.
The getaway car was also confiscated.
The seven suspects, aged between 24 and 43, are expected in the Lenyenye magistrate’s court on Wednesday, 6 May. They will face charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and conspiracy to commit a crime.
The police investigations are still continuing.
