THREE ARRESTED FOR ATM BOMBING TO APPLY FOR BAIL
The Atamelang Magistrates’ Court postponed the case against Nkosingiphile Nkomo (28), Phalani Malei (28) and Pule Mahlatsi (26), to 20 February 2023, for a formal bail application. They are facing charges of alleged damage to essential infrastructure, possession of explosives, possession of ammunition and possession of a firearm.
Police reports revealed that Nkomo and Malei, who are both from Randfontein, were arrested on Wednesday, 8 February 2023, at Madibogo village outside Mahikeng. This was after members of Setlagole and Madibogo police stations, as well as Mahikeng Crime Intelligence, followed up on information regarding Automated Teller Machines (ATM) bombing wanted suspects.
They allegedly exploded two (ATMs) on Tuesday, 6 February 2023, in a complex and fled with an undisclosed amount of cash. Following this incident, police spotted a suspicious vehicle at Madibogo village leading to a car chase. The suspects’ vehicle ultimately stopped, and two males were arrested.
Further investigations led the team to a house in Dikgatlhong where explosives, a firearm, ammunition, and other items were recovered. With the arrival of Mahikeng Tactical Response Team (TRT) members, the hunt for more suspects led the team to a house at Madibogo RDP where ink-stained notes were recovered. Police Investigations also led to the arrest of Mahlatsi, and investigations are still underway to arrest more suspects.
The three will remain in police custody until their next court appearance.
