KwaMhlanga – Police have launched a manhunt for suspected ATM bombers, known to have been striking in KwaMhlanga and neighbouring areas, in Mpumalanga.
The manhunt comes after a shootout between the police and the suspects along the R515 road in Sheldon, near KwaMhlanga, on Wednesday, (26 February 2025).
The suspects were driving in two cars – a grey VW Polo and a grey Opel Corsa sedan.
One suspect was fatally shot.
Other suspects in the VW Polo abandoned their vehicle and escaped on foot.
The suspects in the Opel Corsa drove off.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli confirmed the incident.
Brigadier Mdhluli said the police received a tip-off about the suspects and traced them.
The police spotted the description of vehicles and signalled them to stop but they sped off and shot at the police
“SA Police Service members came across a grey VW Polo and a grey sedan Opel Corsa believed to be linked to the planned ATM bombings,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
“When the police tried to stop the vehicles, the occupants are said to have opened fire on the members.
“In self-defence, the police reportedly retaliated, resulting in one suspect being fatally shot.”
Brigadier Mdhluli said apart from a firearm, mobile phones were also found in the abandoned VW Polo.
“The body of the alleged suspect was found next to the VW Polo where a pistol with live ammunition and a magazine were recovered.
“Additional items, including a banknote and cell phones were also found at the scene,” said Brigadier Mdhluli.
“While some suspects managed to flee, the SAPS is actively searching for them.
“No one has been arrested so far though one man was taken in by the police for questioning.”
