Father Hands Over Son to Police for Involvement in Limpopo ATM Bombings

In a dramatic turn of events in Polokwane, Limpopo, a 21-year-old suspect was arrested for his involvement in a series of ATM bombings across the Vhembe and Mopani districts. The arrest, which occurred early this month, followed a critical act of integrity by the suspect's father, a police officer in Gauteng, who handed over his son to the authorities.

The Provincial Tracking Team in Limpopo spearheaded the investigation and arrest, underscoring their commitment to combating violent crimes involving ATM bombings. Their efforts became particularly significant following an incident on November 18, 2024, where at approximately 2:00 AM, the suspect and his accomplices reportedly used explosives to blast an ATM at a wholesale in Sekgosese. The event escalated into a shootout when police arrived at the scene, although the suspects managed to escape, initiating a high-speed chase. The chase concluded near Sephukubje village, where the suspects abandoned their vehicle—a silver Suzuki sedan—and escaped on foot into the nearby bushes. The vehicle was later seized for evidence.

Investigations led by the Provincial Tracking Team eventually traced the suspect to Daveyton, Ekurhuleni in Gauteng Province. Learning about his son's alleged criminal activities shocked the suspect’s father, prompting him to take the significant step of delivering him into police custody.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, Provincial Commissioner, lauded the arrest and the father's moral judgment, stating it highlighted the challenging decisions law enforcement families might face and praising their resolve in upholding justice irrespective of personal ties.

The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Senwamokgope Periodical Court on charges of malicious damage to property, attempted murder, and reckless and negligent driving. As the judiciary prepares to process the charges, the community and local businesses remain on high alert, given the ongoing risks associated with ATM bombings.

Law enforcement officials continue to pursue the remaining suspects. They have issued a call to the public, urging anyone with information to come forward to assist in the arrest of the accomplices. Specific contact information has been disseminated, including phone numbers for Warrant Officer Phaladi Makola, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Boshomane, and various anonymous reporting options such as the MySAPSApp.

The police's dedication to resolving this case reiterates the force's broader commitment to addressing violent commercial crimes and ensuring safety and security across South Africa.