Gauteng Police Hunt 30 Suspects in ATM Bombing Incident

Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for about 30 suspects who bombed five ATMs at a shopping mall in Hammanskraal and injured a security officer. The suspects initially attacked a security guard, stole his firearm, and engaged in a shootout with law enforcement while attempting to escape. No arrests have been made so far.

In Gauteng, South Africa, authorities have initiated a significant manhunt for approximately 30 individuals suspected of bombing five ATMs at a shopping mall in Hammanskraal during the early hours of Sunday. The incident escalated into violence, resulting in an injury to a security officer amid a confrontation between the suspects, police, and private security personnel.

Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that a case involving attempted murder and the bombing of ATMs is under investigation. The incident commenced when a security guard outside the mall was approached by the suspects, who proceeded to seize his firearm, as well as the mobile phone of another security officer.

Subsequently, the assailants targeted five ATMs, deploying explosives, and then attacked a retail store, where they bombed its drop-safe. During their escape, they confronted law enforcement officers and initiated gunfire, prompting an exchange of shots between the parties involved.

Lieutenant Colonel Masondo further stated, “The suspects robbed him of his firearm and entered the shopping mall, where they robbed the second security officer of his cell phone. It is further alleged that the suspects then bombed five ATMs and broke into one of the shops, where they also bombed the drop-safe.” One security officer sustained injuries and was transported to a medical facility for treatment.

Despite the violent encounter, the suspects successfully fled the scene, and no arrests have been made yet. Law enforcement agencies continue their pursuit of the culprits responsible for this serious criminal act.

The Gauteng police are actively pursuing nearly 30 suspects involved in a violent ATM bombing incident at a Hammanskraal shopping mall, which has left one security officer injured. The authorities have opened an investigative case focusing on attempted murder and the series of bombings. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the individuals responsible for this brazen act of crime.

Original Source: newscentral.africa