Police Launch Manhunt After ATM Bombing at Hammanskraal Mall

A manhunt is underway in Hammanskraal after a gang of around 30 perpetrators allegedly bombed five ATMs at a shopping mall in Hammanskraal, located to the north of Pretoria, on the morning of March 16, 2025. The attack took place at approximately 1:30 AM and resulted in a violent exchange of gunfire between the suspects and both police and private security officers, leaving one security officer injured.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, a spokesperson for the provincial police, the gang carried out the ATM bombings during the early hours of the morning. After carrying out the crime, the suspects attempted to flee the scene, but their escape was thwarted when they encountered both police officers and private security personnel. As the suspects attempted to flee, gunfire erupted, and a shootout ensued.

Masondo confirmed that one of the private security officers was shot and wounded during the exchange of gunfire. The injured officer was quickly rushed to a nearby medical facility where they received treatment for their injuries. Fortunately, their condition is not life-threatening. The police have not made any arrests as of yet, and the search for the perpetrators continues.

The police are still working to determine how much money was stolen from the ATMs during the bombing. This detail remains unclear, and authorities are currently investigating whether the suspects were able to access any funds or if the attack was purely destructive in nature.

Hammanskraal Mall Targeted in Coordinated ATM Bombing as Police Launch Search for Suspects

The mall where the bombings took place, Jubilee Mall in Hammanskraal, has since issued a statement on social media confirming the robbery and offering an update on the situation. “We are saddened to inform you that a robbery occurred at Jubilee Mall on March 16, 2025,” the statement read. “We have temporarily closed the mall to ensure the safety of our customers and staff, and we will provide further updates as more information becomes available.”

The robbery and violent shootout have raised concerns about the growing trend of ATM bombings in South Africa, with incidents like this becoming more frequent in recent months. ATM bombings typically involve suspects using explosives to detonate cash machines, allowing them to quickly access large amounts of money. These crimes are often carried out by organized criminal gangs who target vulnerable ATMs in remote or less-secure areas.

In this case, the perpetrators used sophisticated methods to carry out the attack, but their escape was hindered by the presence of security personnel and police officers. Despite the gunfight, the suspects managed to evade capture, and the search for them remains a priority for the police.

Local residents have expressed shock and concern over the growing violence in the area. The attack has also left many wondering about the level of security at shopping malls and ATMs in the region. Many have called for increased surveillance and more robust security measures to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

While the police continue their investigation, they are urging anyone with information about the crime or the whereabouts of the suspects to come forward. Law enforcement officials have also appealed to the public to be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities immediately.

As of now, the mall remains closed while investigations continue, and the local community is waiting for further updates on the situation. The police are working diligently to track down the suspects and bring them to justice, while residents and business owners in the area are left grappling with the aftermath of the brazen attack.

source – Twitter