Two arrested in R7 million Western Cape ATM scam

Two suspects, aged 35 and 38, have been arrested in connection with a sophisticated ATM scam that resulted in an estimated loss of R7 million. The suspects were linked to a string of fraudulent withdrawals in the Western Cape and were caught during a well-coordinated police operation.

Multi-Disciplinary Operation Leads to Arrest

According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Avele Fumba, the arrests took place on Monday near Peddie. The successful operation was led by the East London Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, working in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies.

“The suspects are believed to have been using specialised software to illegally withdraw cash from ATMs serviced by Fidelity Cash Solutions,” said Fumba.

One of the suspects allegedly disguised himself as a Fidelity security guard, carrying a rifle to create the illusion of legitimate ATM servicing. This deception allowed the criminals to access ATMs undetected and withdraw large sums of money.

ATM scam

Western Cape Police Alerted

The series of ATM scams initially drew the attention of the Western Cape police, who then activated the Hawks’ Commercial Crimes Unit in the Eastern Cape after receiving intelligence that the suspects had relocated to the province.

Authorities quickly launched a search operation to track them down. Acting on a tip-off, investigators traced the suspects to a guest house in East London. However, by the time officers arrived, the duo had already left, traveling in a white Toyota Fortuner towards Peddie.

A swift response from the multi-disciplinary team led to the interception of the vehicle on the N2 highway, where both suspects were arrested without incident.

Evidence Uncovered

During a search of the suspects’ vehicle, police discovered a laptop allegedly containing fraudulent ATM-access software. The device is believed to have played a critical role in the scam, allowing the criminals to manipulate ATM transactions and withdraw cash illegally.

Other crucial evidence was also seized, further strengthening the case against them.

Court Appearance and Pending Charges

The two suspects are scheduled to appear in the East London Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. Following this initial appearance, they will be transferred to the Western Cape, where they will face multiple charges related to fraud, cybercrime, and theft.

Hawks Vow to Crack Down on Financial Crimes

Major General Mboiki Obed Ngwenya, the provincial head of the Hawks in the Eastern Cape, reassured the public that law enforcement agencies remain committed to dismantling organised crime syndicates.

“Our teams are working tirelessly to ensure that those involved in economic crimes are brought to justice. ATM fraud not only affects financial institutions but also undermines the safety and confidence of ordinary South Africans who rely on these services,” said Ngwenya.

The case serves as a warning to other criminal syndicates attempting to exploit banking systems. Authorities have vowed to continue their crackdown on financial crimes and hold perpetrators accountable.