More ATM bombings at Lwamondo

LIMPOPO –  Two ATMs were bombed at a filling station in Lwamondo on November 19, leaving the community without local banking services and raising concerns about safety as the festive season approaches – a period often marked by heightened criminal activity.

According to Vhembe Police spokesperson WO Vuledzani Dathi, armed suspects forced a security officer and filling station employees to the back of the premises before detonating explosives to access the ATMs. The robbers made off with an undisclosed amount. Police recovered evidence, including cartridges, a detonator battery, and a face mask at the scene, and investigations are ongoing. No injuries were reported.

“We urge the community to provide any information that could assist in apprehending the suspects,” he said, calling for cooperation between the public and the police to bring the perpetrators to justice.

This incident follows a pattern of ATM bombings in Vhembe. Two months ago, ATMs were destroyed at the Tshakhuma shopping complex, and three weeks ago, an ATM at a Shayandima shopping centre was targeted.

The frequency of these attacks has left residents questioning the effectiveness of the police’s ability to deal with perpetrators of these acts decisively. One resident, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration at the lack of progress in investigations.

“These bombings are becoming a monthly occurrence in Vhembe. We feel abandoned by the police, especially when it comes to resolving cases like housebreak-ins. The community deserves better protection,” he said.

The loss of the Lwamondo ATMs has further inconvenienced residents, many of whom relied on the machines to avoid travelling to Thohoyandou for banking services. The resident added, “We depend on these ATMs day and night. Now we hope the filling station remains open and that police visibility is increased to deter further criminal acts”.