Police arrest six alleged ATM bombers and and seize dye-stained bank notes

Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner North West

POTCHEFSTROOM – Police in Mareetsane attended a scene at Zone 5 Section, in the early hours of Wednesday morning, 12 February 2025, where unknown suspects exploded a door, next to an Automated Teller Machine (ATM).

Upon arrival of the police at the scene, the suspects ran in different directions, but police arrested the first suspect, Oatile Nchang (23), who was waiting in a getaway vehicle. Further investigations by Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit members led to the arrest of Thabo Obed Kalabase (40) and Phemelo Motlhankane (24), a short while later.

Meanwhile at the neighbouring town of Delareyville, farmers found three suspects in possession of bags, containing clothes, balaclavas and dye-stained notes. The local police were called and the suspects;  Tshepang Edwin Mohapi (44), Rethabile Mohapinyana (27) and Letlala Qabano (37) were arrested and charged for possession of suspected stolen goods. The trio appeared in the Delareyville Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 14 February 2025. Afterwards, they were taken to the Ditsobotla Magistrates’ Court in Itsoseng where they appeared with the initial three suspects arrested in Mareetsane, facing charges of malicious damage to property and illegal possession of explosives. All six accused were remanded in custody until their next court appearance on Monday, 17 February 2025.

The Acting Provincial Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng expressed his gratitude to all the members who took part in the operation for their bravery. He also thanked the farmers for working together with the police to ensure that the alleged perpetrators were brought to book.
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