Three suspected ATM bombers were shot dead by the South African Police Service following a chase that ended in a violent shootout at a safe house in Mahikeng.
The incident began in Dinokana village, Zeerust, where an ATM bombing took place. Police pursued the suspects, tracking them to a property in Mahikeng. Upon arrival, officers and the suspects exchanged gunfire, leaving three suspects deceased at the scene. No police officers sustained injuries.
Speaking from the scene, the property owner told reporters that it remains unclear which of the deceased or arrested individuals was the tenant. Police officers continue to process the scene, including counting bullet casings from the shootout.
North West Community Safety MEC Wessels Morweng addressed the incident, expressing both commendation and concern.
“We are quite excited as the MEC responsible for the department for the wonderful job that the police have done today,” Morweng said. “We commend the leadership of General Naidu and his men and women in blue.”
He emphasized that no officers were harmed: “If there’s anything, three criminals have lied down. That is something commendable because we could be speaking here with police officers lying down.”
However, Morweng expressed disappointment over the involvement of a police officer in the criminal activity. “What is quite disappointing is the fact that one of our members of the SAPS is involved. Those are quite news that are not really satisfactory. But for the fact that as I speak with you, the police officer is behind custody, that is commendable.”
He added: “Once you are part of the criminal activities, you are no longer a police officer. We must take our uniform that is in blue and give you the orange uniform because that’s where you belong.”
Morweng described ATM bombings as a serious concern that affects the economy and jobs, warning that such crimes deter investment. He praised the work of police intelligence units in tracking down the suspects.
“Three criminals are down. I’m very happy. I’m excited,” Morweng concluded.