Swift Police Operation Halts ATM Bombing Syndicate in Mahikeng

A coordinated, intelligence driven police operation in the North West Province has led to the arrest of five suspects, including a serving police officer, following an ATM bombing reported in the early hours of the morning (6 May 2026) in Dinokana near Zeerust.  

The suspects were identified and tracked through a multidisciplinary operation which culminated in a confrontation with law enforcement officers at Mogogae Village in Mmabatho. During the encounter, a shootout ensued between police and the suspects, resulting in three suspects being fatally wounded.  

Provincial Commissioner for North West, Major General Doctor Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the swift breakthrough and praised the commitment and cooperation displayed by the various units involved. He emphasised that the decisive action taken demonstrates the resolve of the South African Police Service to dismantle organised crime networks and protect communities from violent criminal activities.  

Major General Naidoo further expressed strong condemnation regarding the alleged involvement of a police officer in the commission of serious crimes. He stated that any member of the South African Police Service who chooses to engage in criminal conduct betrays the oath to serve and protect the public. Such actions, he said, will not be tolerated, and offenders will be subjected to the full force of the law without fear or favour.  

The operation involved members drawn from the National Intervention Unit deployed on illicit mining operations in the North West, the Tactical Response Team in Mahikeng, K9 units from Lichtenburg and Mahikeng, Mmabatho Visible Policing, Mmabatho Detectives, the Local Criminal Record Centre, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Criminal Record and Crime Scene Management, District Detective Coordination, Emergency and Medical Rescue Services, and Provincial Traffic.  

The remaining suspects who were arrested are expected to make their court appearances soon on charges related to ATM bombing, possession of explosives and other associated offences. Police investigations are continuing, and efforts are currently underway to trace and apprehend additional suspects believed to be linked to the incident.  

SAPS Mourns the Loss of Two Tactical Response Team Sergeants

The South African Police Service is in mourning following the tragic death of two Tactical Response Team sergeants who were killed in a single vehicle accident in Witbank, Mpumalanga.

The incident occurred on the evening of Tuesday, 05 May 2026, while the members were travelling to Pretoria to testify in court. It is reported that the official state vehicle they were using lost control, leading to a fatal crash.

At the time of their deaths, both officers were deployed as part of the eManguzi Task Team in KwaZulu Natal, where they were actively involved in efforts to combat cross border crime. Their work formed part of ongoing operations aimed at restoring safety and stability in the affected areas.

The Acting National Commissioner of the South African Police Service, Lieutenant General Dimpane, has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased members.

Lieutenant General Dimpane described the loss as a severe blow to the organisation, noting that the two officers served the country with dedication and bravery. He said the thoughts and prayers of the SAPS leadership are with the bereaved families and loved ones during this difficult period.

The SAPS has also expressed its deepest sympathy to the colleagues of the fallen members, particularly those serving within the eManguzi Task Team, who worked alongside them in the fight against serious and violent crime.

The names of the deceased will be released once all immediate family members have been formally informed.

In support of those affected, the SAPS Employee Health and Wellness unit has been dispatched to render psychosocial services to the families and colleagues of the deceased members.

Cash Van Incident Under Investigation After Fatal Attack in Bushbuckridge

Police in Bushbuckridge have opened a murder investigation following a disturbing incident involving a cash in transit vehicle earlier today, Tuesday 5 May 2026. An attempted robbery is also under investigation after a video linked to the incident circulated widely on social media.

According to reports, the cash in transit vehicle was parked in Bushbuckridge with two security officers inside while the passenger entered a nearby shop. During this time, an armed suspect allegedly opened the passenger door and attacked the driver with a sharp object.

Other security officers in the area reportedly noticed the attack and fired shots at the suspect, who fell to the ground. It is further alleged that the cash van was then driven over the suspect. The man was certified dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been formally established.

Police have confirmed that all aspects of the incident are under thorough investigation to determine the full sequence of events and the circumstances surrounding the death.

In response to the graphic video circulating on various social media platforms, police have appealed to members of the public to refrain from sharing or distributing such footage. The circulation of graphic material may cause additional trauma to the families affected and distress to members of the public.

The South African Police Service has emphasised the importance of allowing investigators the necessary space to conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, has strongly condemned the incident and assured the public that the matter will be dealt with decisively. He reiterated that anyone found to have acted unlawfully will be held accountable and that justice will be pursued without fear or favour.

Enquiries regarding the investigation will be communicated as more information becomes available.

NATJOINTS Appeals for Lawful and Peaceful Protest Action

The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure has called on all individuals and organisations intending to participate in marches to conduct themselves responsibly and strictly within the confines of the law.

In a media statement issued in Pretoria on 05 May 2026, NATJOINTS reaffirmed that while the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful protest, this right must be exercised without resorting to violence, intimidation or any other unlawful behaviour.

National SAPS Spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe emphasised that protests must not infringe on the rights and safety of others. She urged participants to avoid actions that could destabilise public order or place lives at risk.

Protesters have been cautioned against inciting violence or intimidating any individual or group. They are further urged not to carry dangerous weapons or objects that could be used to cause harm. NATJOINTS stressed the importance of respecting the dignity, rights and safety of all people, irrespective of nationality, and reminded demonstrators to comply with lawful instructions issued by police officers deployed to maintain order.

Law enforcement agencies on the ground have been directed to enforce the law without hesitation. Individuals found in possession of dangerous weapons or involved in incitement to violence will face decisive action. NATJOINTS has made it clear that any conduct threatening public safety or undermining the rule of law will not be tolerated.

The South African Police Service Public Order Policing units remain deployed to monitor demonstrations and ensure that law and order is maintained. Authorities have reiterated that anyone found contravening the law during protests will be dealt with accordingly.

NATJOINTS further warned against acts of vigilantism and lawlessness, stating that such behaviour has no place in a constitutional democracy.

At the same time, NATJOINTS, together with all Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structures, continues to work tirelessly in preventing and combating crime nationwide. Through intensified policing initiatives such as Operation Shanela, law enforcement agencies are sustaining pressure on criminal networks, leading to the arrest of thousands of suspects each week, including those linked to serious and violent crimes.

The structure concluded by reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding public safety while upholding the rights enshrined in the Constitution.

MK Party Calls for Unity as Immigration Debate Fuels Division

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party has strongly condemned the resurgence of tribal rhetoric in public discourse, warning that such statements risk deepening social divisions at a time when South Africa faces severe economic and social strain.

As unemployment rises and communities experience growing pressure on limited resources, the party has urged political leaders to exercise responsibility and leadership by promoting unity rather than encouraging division. The MK Party argues that illegal immigration is a national challenge that affects South Africans across all provinces, language groups and cultural communities, and should never be framed as the burden of a single group.

National spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said attempts to portray the issue through a tribal or regional lens are both misleading and dangerous.

“Illegal immigration is a reality faced by communities throughout the country. To suggest that it belongs to one province or one community is not only dishonest, but cowardly. At this critical moment, South Africans deserve leadership that unites rather than inflames tensions,” Ndhlela said.

The party noted that concerns related to illegal immigration are not new. For decades, residents in areas such as Alexandra, Diepsloot and Khayelitsha have raised alarm over increased pressure on employment, housing and basic services. These frustrations were evident during violent unrest in 2008, as well as in subsequent outbreaks of violence in 2015 and 2019. According to the MK Party, this history clearly demonstrates that illegal immigration is a national issue rather than a localised or tribal one.

The MK Party has rejected outright the scapegoating of Zulu-speaking communities or any other group. It argues that tribalism neither conceals nor resolves the structural challenges posed by illegal immigration, but instead deepens divisions among communities that are already struggling.

“Tribalism offers no solutions. It distracts from the real issue and places the burden on communities that are themselves victims of economic exclusion. The poor and working class suffer the most as they are forced to compete for scarce jobs and opportunities,” Ndhlela added.

The party also criticised the ANC-led government for what it describes as a continued failure to act decisively. Despite sustained public concern, the Border Management Authority remains under resourced and inadequately staffed, limiting effective border control. The MK Party further pointed to the Immigration Amendment Act of 2025, supported by the ANC, the DA and other parties, which it says has made the detention and deportation of illegal immigrants more difficult by requiring the state to fund legal representation. This, the party argues, places further strain on already stretched public resources.

According to the MK Party, the persistence of illegal immigration is not accidental but deliberate. It claims the system mirrors the cheap labour model inherited from colonialism and apartheid, now maintained in a different form. The party maintains that this model primarily benefits white monopoly capital by suppressing wages and undermining the economic security of ordinary South Africans.

Reaffirming its position, the MK Party said it remains committed to firm and lawful immigration management and to protecting the dignity and economic interests of all citizens. It warned that irresponsible rhetoric undermines social cohesion, fuels tribal tensions and diverts attention from the broader struggle for economic justice and true liberation.

“We call on South Africans to reject divisive narratives and opportunistic politics. Our future lies in unity, justice and the collective pursuit of genuine economic freedom,” Ndhlela said.

The MK Party concluded by urging society to remain focused on building a united, just and truly liberated South Africa.

Police Appeal for Public Help to Track Klerksdorp ATM Fraud Suspect

         Image of Ramagatsi Isaac Molefi 

The South African Police Service in Klerksdorp has appealed to the public to assist in locating a wanted suspect linked to a string of ATM related fraud cases in the area.

Police are searching for 41 year old Ramagatsi Isaac Molefi, also known as Mazaza, who is believed to be part of a syndicate targeting unsuspecting bank clients at automated teller machines in Klerksdorp. The group allegedly stole victims’ bank cards by distracting them while they were conducting transactions, before unlawfully withdrawing money from their accounts.

Molefi was previously arrested and appeared before the Klerksdorp Regional Court, where he was granted bail. He failed to appear in court last week and is now wanted by the police. He also has previous convictions for theft, with some cases reported as far back as 2019.

SAPS North West Province spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh emphasised the seriousness of the matter and the importance of public cooperation.

“ATM related crimes continue to place a significant emotional and financial burden on victims, many of whom are elderly and particularly vulnerable. The police remain committed to dismantling criminal syndicates involved in these offences and ensuring that suspects are brought before court. We urge anyone who may have information regarding the whereabouts of Mr Molefi to come forward and assist the police. Community cooperation remains a vital component in the fight against crime and in ensuring that justice is served,” said Colonel Myburgh.

Members of the public who may have information that can assist in tracing Ramagatsi Isaac Molefi are encouraged to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Connie Nepgen of the Klerksdorp Detectives, on 068 906 5410 or 018 464 5028. Information can also be reported to the Klerksdorp Branch Commander, Colonel JC Scholtz, on 082 568 6264.

Anonymous tip offs can be submitted via the MySAPS App on smartphones or by calling Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Nationwide Police Operation Delivers Thousands of Arrests in Sweeping Crime Crackdown

The South African Police Service has intensified its nationwide offensive against crime through Operation Shanela, leading to the arrest of 13 373 suspects for a wide range of offences between 27 April and 3 May 2026. The large scale operation, conducted across all provinces, also resulted in the seizure of illegal firearms, dangerous weapons, drugs and illicit alcohol, reinforcing the police service’s firm stance against criminality.

Among those arrested were 1 474 suspects wanted for serious and violent crimes, including murder, rape, attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, carjacking, as well as house and business robberies. These arrests were achieved through targeted operations focusing on wanted suspects and crime hot spots identified through intelligence led policing.

Significant inroads were also made in the fight against drug related crime. Police arrested 276 alleged drug dealers, with the highest numbers recorded in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and KwaZulu Natal. In addition, 1 542 suspects were detained for possession of drugs, with the Western Cape accounting for the majority of these arrests, followed by the Eastern Cape and Gauteng.

Operations aimed at disrupting transnational drug trafficking networks yielded further successes at OR Tambo International Airport. A 33 year old South African woman was arrested while en route to Hong Kong after drugs valued at more than R500 000 were found concealed in her luggage. A 66 year old Somali national was intercepted with 55 kilograms of khat estimated to be worth over R100 000, while an abandoned bag containing an additional 45 kilograms of khat was seized, with an estimated value exceeding R90 000.

The week’s operations also highlighted extraordinary commitment and bravery by police members. On 3 May 2026, Captain Johan “Pottie” Potgieter was lowered from a SANParks helicopter into crocodile infested waters of the Komati River to secure a euthanised crocodile. This high risk intervention enabled the recovery of human remains believed to be those of a missing person. The remains have since been sent for DNA analysis to confirm the individual’s identity.

Arrests related to contact crimes remained a priority, with 100 suspects apprehended for murder, the majority in Gauteng and the Western Cape. Police also arrested 88 suspects for attempted murder, 1 111 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and a further 841 for common assault.

Focused operations addressing gender based violence and sexual offences led to the arrest of 158 rape suspects, with KwaZulu Natal recording the highest number, followed by Gauteng and the Western Cape. These arrests form part of ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable groups and ensure accountability for perpetrators of violent crimes.

Police also made extensive seizures during the operation. A total of 131 illegal or unlicensed firearms were confiscated, along with 2 333 rounds of ammunition. In addition, 872 dangerous weapons were removed from communities as part of preventative actions to reduce violent crime.

Road safety and liquor law enforcement operations resulted in the closure of 666 unlicensed liquor outlets nationwide, with the Western Cape and KwaZulu Natal recording the most shutdowns. Police arrested 1 085 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol, while more than 23 000 litres of alcohol were seized during inspections and compliance operations.

Further arrests included 13 suspects linked to human trafficking and 1 441 individuals detained for offences related to illegal migration. These interventions reflect continued efforts to address organised crime and cross border criminal activities.

Several decisive operations across provinces led to notable breakthroughs. In Limpopo, five Mozambican nationals were arrested in Polokwane following intelligence driven investigations into a cross border vehicle theft syndicate targeting Isuzu bakkies and Toyota four by fours. Two stolen vehicles, a generator and housebreaking tools were recovered, and the suspects are linked to at least 22 cases reported since December 2024. In Mpumalanga, police in Mbuzini recovered three firearms hidden in a ceiling, including a revolver, a Vector firearm and a rifle, along with ammunition and magazines, leading to the arrest of one suspect. In Gauteng, three suspects aged between 23 and 25 were arrested in connection with a kidnapping, and a 30 year old victim was successfully rescued. Police also seized a bakkie, bank cards and cellphones. In KwaZulu Natal, Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences detectives arrested a 69 year old doctor in Madadeni for allegedly sexually assaulting four female patients between August 2025 and April 2026. In the Eastern Cape, four suspects aged between 25 and 27 were arrested following a courier van hijacking on the N2 near Butterworth. Recovered items included a courier van, a passenger vehicle, a firearm, ammunition, stolen goods and a signal jamming device. The suspects are expected to appear in the Butterworth Magistrate’s Court.

Commenting on the outcomes of the operation, SAPS National Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi said the results demonstrated the police service’s unwavering commitment to restoring safety and stability in communities. He emphasised that Operation Shanela would continue with renewed intensity to ensure that criminals are brought to justice and communities are protected from violence and organised crime.