An armed gang of criminals targeting automated teller machines (ATMs) for money, have left a trail of damages at the Botshabelo’s Caltex garage after the bombing of two machines in the early morning today. They reportedly escaped with an undisclosed amount of cash after destroying the two portable machines situated on the business premises. The filling station is neighbour to the Lenyora La Thuto Comprehensive School, in section H.
The organised syndicate used explosives to destroy the machines at about 02:20. Members of the Botshabelo police are at the scene for investigation and no arrests have been made yet. The filling station remains closed for business due to the crime. The management of the business announced on social media platforms that they will be evaluating and assessing the damages suffered.
Some shocked homeowners residing close to the business said they were awakened by the huge bang of explosive devices used on the ATMs. One said she heard the ground shaking as explosives went off five times in a row.
The bombing of the ATMs at the Botshabelo garage corresponds with the bombing of an ATM at Mi Ning Supermarket Wholesalers, Bakery and Hardware in Turflaagte in Bloemfontein on 20 January. A group of armed men bombed the machines on the premises at about 02:30. The Bloemfontein police arrested two suspects linked to the bombing of the mini-supermarket.
The South African Banking Risk Information Centre (Sabric) reported that ATM attacks are increasing. The body revealed that annual crime stats for 2021 show ATM attacks increased by 11% in 2021, with a 17% increase in losses.
