POTCHEFSTROOM – The vigilance and hard work paid off when the Marikana police apprehended two suspects aged 35 and 37 for attempted ATM bombing and possession of explosives.

According to information received, police were conducting patrols in the early hours of Tuesday morning, 14 December 2021, when they spotted and approached two men near Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). Upon seeing the police approaching, the duo ran away leading to a chase. Subsequently, the police managed to catch the men and searched their bags. During the search, explosives were found inside the bags.  The police allegedly went back to the ATMs where the men were initially spotted and ultimately found other explosives connected to two ATMs.

The pair was arrested and is expected to appear in the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 15 December 2021, on charges of attempted ATM bombing and possession of explosives.

The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, congratulated Marikana members for their vigilance and swift reaction that resulted in the arrest.

Source: South African Police Service