GAUTENG – Three suspects have been arrested in Gauteng after law enforcement recovered a significant cache of explosives linked to ATM bombings, cash-in-transit (CIT) robberies, and illegal mining operations. The intelligence-driven operation was executed in Matholesville, Roodepoort, on Tuesday, 01 September 2026.
A multidisciplinary task force was assembled to act on credible intelligence regarding a suspected explosives supplier. The joint operation involved members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Intelligence, the Ivory Park Task Team, Gauteng Traffic SLEU, the West Rand Explosives Unit, and private security partners.
Upon executing a search at a targeted premises in Matholesville, authorities located two men and a woman. The subsequent search of the property led to the recovery of 88 safety fuses, 62 blasting cartridges, and approximately 400 metres of detonating cord. The seized explosives carry an estimated street value of R160,000. In addition to the blasting materials, a white Toyota Etios displaying false registration plates was confiscated for further forensic investigation.
All three suspects, who are Zimbabwean nationals, have been formally arrested on charges of possession of explosives and are expected to appear in court shortly.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Gauteng, Major General Fred Kekana, commended the multidisciplinary team for their coordination and the successful outcome of the intelligence-led operation.
Investigations remain active as authorities work to establish potential connections between these suspects and other recent ATM bombing incidents, CIT robberies, and illegal mining activities across the region.
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