Taxi Owner Distances Himself from Foiled ATM Bombing
The owner of the minibus taxi used in a recent foiled ATM bombing incident has come forward to deny any involvement in criminal activities. Mpho Mabasa, a member of the STS Association, expressed shock upon learning that the driver of his taxi was allegedly part of a large ATM bombing syndicate responsible for 41 incidents nationwide.
Taxi Owner Expresses Shock
Mabasa stated that he had no knowledge of the driver’s criminal activities and was under the impression that he was simply trying to earn a living. The taxi owner revealed that he had hired the driver based on a referral and was unaware of his involvement in illegal activities.
Mabasa recounted the events leading up to the foiled ATM bombing, mentioning that the driver had taken the vehicle in the early hours of the morning and only later learned of the driver’s alleged criminal actions when contacted by the police.
Failed ATM Bombing and Shootout
The foiled ATM bombing took place at an Engen garage in Protea, Soweto, where officers responded to gunshots and discovered suspects fleeing the scene. Despite explosives being found attached to an ATM, they failed to detonate, thanks to the swift intervention of law enforcement.
During a shootout with the police in Lenasia, one suspect was shot, another critically injured and hospitalized under police guard, and three additional suspects were apprehended. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department commended the tactical response unit for their efforts in preventing the ATM bombing and apprehending multiple suspects.
Chief Patrick Jaca emphasized the importance of combating organized crime and praised the efforts of law enforcement in thwarting the criminal activities of these individuals. While five suspects remain at large, efforts are ongoing to bring them to justice.
