An intelligence driven operation has resulted in the arrest of five suspects, including a police officer, in connection with an ATM bombing reported in the early hours of the morning in Dinokana, Zeerust in the North West.
The arrests follow a multidisciplinary operation that tracked the suspects and lead to a confrontation at Magogae Village, Mmabatho. During the shootout, three suspects were fatally wounded.
Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo welcomed the swift arrests, highlighting the dedication and coordination of the teams involved in bringing the suspects to book.
At the same time, Naidoo strongly condemned the alleged involvement of a police officer in such serious criminal activities.
"The actions of any member of the SAPS who engages in criminality are a betrayal of the oath to serve and protect. Such conduct will not be tolerated and those found on the wrong side of the law will face the full might of the law,” said the Major General.
The dedicated team consisted of members of National Intervention Unit (NIU) working for Illicit mining operations in the North West, Tactical Response Team (TRT) Mahikeng, K9 Lichtenburg and Mahikeng, Mmabatho Visible Policing (VISPOL), Mmabatho Detectives, Local Criminal Record Centre, DPCI, Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management ( CR & CSM), District Detective Coordination, Emergency and Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) and Provincial Traffic.
The arrested suspects are expected to appear in court soon, facing charges related to ATM bombing, possession of explosives and other related offences.
The team is currently tracking further suspects in this matter. – SAnews.gov.za
