Mpumalanga – Five suspected ATM bombers died in a dramatic early morning shootout with police and private security officers in Emalahleni (Witbank), Mpumalanga, on Monday, 2 December. The incident unfolded after a tip-off led to a confrontation near Schoongezicht.
According to Brigadier Donald Mdluli, police spokesperson, the operation stemmed from intelligence suggesting an imminent ATM bombing in the Witbank area. A multi-agency task force, comprising members of the Special Task Force, the Tactical Management Operational Section, and Falcon Risk Security, was deployed to monitor a suspected safe house in Schoongezicht.
"The team was strategically placed to watch for a white Toyota Hilux, as indicated in the intelligence," Mdluli explained.
The white Toyota Hilux, identified in the intelligence information, was spotted leaving the area. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the suspects opened fire, initiating a fierce exchange of gunfire. The shootout resulted in the deaths of five suspects, while one was apprehended at the scene.
"Five suspects died, one was injured, and firearms and explosives were found," Mdluli confirmed.
Colonel Katlego Mogale, Hawks spokesperson, provided further details, corroborating the events. She stated that the task team, a collaboration between the Hawks, the police's Special Task Force, and private security officers, acted on intelligence regarding a planned ATM bombing in the Witbank area.
"Information was operationalised, leading the team to Schoongezicht, where the group was reportedly converging at an alleged safe house," Mogale said.
"The identified vehicle was spotted driving out from the area and when the team attempted to stop the vehicle, suspects opened fire and a shootout ensued," she added.
Amongst the items recovered at the scene were a significant arsenal of weapons and explosives. The police seized an R5 rifle, a hunting rifle with a scope, and three 9mm pistols, in addition to the explosives. Mogale noted that "The bakkie in which the suspects were travelling is subject to further investigation."
The successful operation earned high praise from Lieutenant-General Godfrey Lebeya, the DPCI National Head. Lebeya commended the task team’s efforts and issued a stern warning to potential criminals.
"A call is made to potential robbers to withdraw from such activities, as these behaviours always attract dire consequences. The team shall always be on alert," Lebeya declared.
