File
Five suspected ATM bombers were fatally wounded and one arrested following a shootout with members of the police and security officers in Witbank early on Monday morning.
Police spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale, said the task team consisted of the Hawks, the police’s Special Task Force, and officers from a private security company, Falcon Risk Security.
She said the team was acting on a tip-off about the planned bombing and was strategically posted in Schoongezicht in Emalahleni to be on the lookout for Toyota Hilux vehicle that the suspects were driving.
“The identified vehicle was spotted driving out from the area and when the team attempted to stop the vehicle, suspects opened fire and a shootout ensued.
“Five suspects were fatally wounded and one was injured. An R5 rifle, a hunting rifle with a scope, and three 9mm pistols as well as explosives were recovered on the scene,” Mogale said.
The vehicle was also confiscated.
The head of the Hawks, Lieutenant-General Godfrey Lebeya commended the work of the team.
