Seven Lesotho nationals appeared in the Ficksburg Magistrate’s Court facing charges of armed robbery charges linked to an ATM bombing in Clarens on 14 May.
The accused, Letuka Mokoiliti (30), Mashele Hlabathe (31), Lechesa Sehlako (24), Mathunya Seeta (27), Koena Sello (29), Matela Morai (24), and Morena Makhobolo all who have abandoned their bail applications were arrested following a swift police response and coordinated manhunt.
In the early hours of 17 May 2025, at approximately 01:00, Ficksburg SAPS operating under a multidisciplinary approach spotted the Toyota Fortuner parked near an ATM in Ficksburg. Two men were observed tampering with the machine. Upon noticing the police, the suspects attempted to flee, prompting a vehicle chase. The pursuit ended with the successful arrest of all five occupants of the Fortuner, including one woman.
The two suspects initially found at the ATM were also detained, bringing the total number of arrests to seven.
Stained cash believed to be from the robbery was recovered, and the vehicle was seized. They will remain in custody as the matter was postponed to the 31 July for further investigation by the police.