Police in Gauteng have launched an extensive manhunt for a group of around 30 suspects who allegedly bombed five ATMs at a shopping mall in Hammanskraal, Tshwane, South Africa, during the early hours of Sunday.
The incident also left a security officer injured following a violent exchange of gunfire between the suspects, police, and private security personnel.
Authorities have confirmed that a case of attempted murder and ATM bombings has been opened as part of the ongoing investigation.
According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, the attack began when a security guard patrolling outside the mall was confronted by the gang.
“The suspects robbed him of his firearm before proceeding into the shopping mall, where they also took the mobile phone of another security officer,” Masondo said.
Following this, the assailants targeted five ATMs, setting off explosives before breaking into a store and bombing its drop-safe.
As the suspects attempted to make their getaway, they encountered police officers and opened fire, resulting in a shootout.
“The suspects robbed him of his firearm and entered the shopping mall, where they robbed the second security officer of his cell phone. It is further alleged that the suspects then bombed five ATMs and broke into one of the shops, where they also bombed the drop-safe,” Masondo confirmed.
“One of the security officers was shot and wounded. He was taken to a medical care centre for treatment,” he added.
Despite the intense confrontation, the suspects managed to escape, and no arrests have been made so far. Law enforcement officials are continuing their efforts to track down those responsible for the attack.
