Klerksdorp – Seven would-be bombers of Automated Teller Machines (ATM) have been arrested, and police have recovered a rifle, pistol, and explosives.
The planned ATM bombing was foiled after the suspects were arrested before they could commit the crime on Tuesday morning, 3 March 2026.
“The suspects, aged between 30 and 58 years, were apprehended in Klerksdorp CBD following credible intelligence received by the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section regarding a planned bombing of an ATM,” said Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale.
“Acting swiftly on the information, members operationalised the intelligence and intercepted the suspects before they could execute the crime.
“During the operation, members recovered one rifle, one pistol, as well as explosives believed to have been intended for use in the commission of the offence.”
The arrests were made by a multidisciplinary team comprising members of the South African Police Service Special Task Force (STF), the Hawks’ Tactical Operations Management Section (TOMS), and other law enforcement roleplayers.
The suspects are expected to face charges including possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, conspiracy to commit a crime, and possession of a suspected stolen motor vehicle.
They are scheduled to appear soon before the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court.
