Nelspruit: 24 January 2023 - Ehlanzeni Crime Intelligence Task Team in collaboration with White River Canine (K9) and Tactical Response Team nabbed a big fish when a 30 year old alleged ATM bomber was found with stacks of torn bank notes believed to be acquired through ongoing ATM bombings in the province. Meanwhile another suspect aged 32 was nabbed for possession of unlicensed ammunition.
Intelligence driven information led police to the suspect's residential place in Matsulu A just before midnight on Monday, 23 January 2023. During the time when the suspect was nabbed, his house was searched and that was when the members recovered a plastic bag stuffed with large sum of torn money.
According to information, the suspect's arrest was as a result of details which was gathered and the information convinced members that the suspect could be involved in a string of ATM bombings around Ehlanzeni District. Proceeding from his house, the team then further went to another house in Matsulu B, Marikana Section where the second suspect was arrested for unlawful possession of ammunitions (rounds for 9mm pistol). The investigation on both suspects will also focus on ascertaining whether the two were not involved in other criminal activities previously committed elsewhere.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela has welcomed the arrest and commended members for their diligence and dedication in the fight against crime. The General further warned perpetrators of crime that there is no longer space nor time for criminality in the province and police are working tirelessly to address the challenge of ATM bombing with the hope to bring perpetrators thereof to book.