At least 5 alleged ATM bombers shot dead by police, private security in Witbank

JOHANNESBURG - Five suspected ATM bombers were shot dead by police in Witbank early on Monday morning. 

The shootout saw one other suspect arrested after a tip-off was received of a potential bombing in the Witbank area.

The police's Special Task Force, Falcon Risk Security in Emalahleni, and the Hawks' Tactical Management Operational Section descended on a suspected safe house in Schoongezicht.

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After identifying a suspicious Toyota Hilux, teams attempted to stop the vehicle, but suspects retaliated by opening fire. 

Police confiscated an R5 rifle, a hunting rifle, three 9mm pistols, and explosives at the scene. The vehicle is also being investigated further. 

Hawks boss Godfrey Lebeya said the shootout should serve as a warning to would-be criminals. 

"A call is made to potential robbers to withdraw from such activities as these behaviours always attract dire consequences. The team shall always be on alert."

ANOTHER BUST

Meanwhile, in Limpopo, four suspects said to be behind a spate of ATM bombings in the province were also nabbed on police on Saturday. 

The suspects, aged between 33 and 45, were arrested in the Sekgosese policing area after information was received the suspects planned to commit more bombings in the Tzaneen area. They are set to be charged with conspiracy to commit a crime, possession of prohibited firearms and ammunition, and contravention of the Explosives Act. 

A number of rifles, explosives and live ammunition were recovered during the bust.