Two suspects Johan Richard Thwala (35), and Themba Ngwenya (32) appeared in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

According to the Hawks, the suspects were arrested in an intelligence-driven operation in the Barberton area which resulted in the pair’s arrest for allegedly dealing and possession of explosives. Various explosives including; blasting cartridges, detonators, ammonium nitrate pills and detonating fuses and a cash were seized during the operation.

The suspects are believed to be linked to the alleged supply of explosives to cash heists syndicates in Mpumalanga which has seen a number of such incidents in recent times.

Both accused have been remanded in custody, the case has been postponed to  Thursday for a formal bail application.