A syndicate suspected of distributing illegal explosives to perpetrators of cash-in-transit (CIT) heists, ATM bombings, and illicit mining operations has been apprehended.
The operation, led by the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Eastern Cape Crime Intelligence, National Intervention Unit (NIU) from Pretoria, and the Free State Explosives section, culminated in the arrest of three men and a woman in Welkom, Free State, on Wednesday afternoon.
The suspects are believed to be at the center of a criminal network involved in a series of explosive-related crimes across multiple provinces, including the Free State, Eastern Cape, North West, and Gauteng.
Their activities are thought to have played a pivotal role in several high-profile incidents of ATM bombings, CIT robberies, and unauthorized mining operations, posing a significant threat to public safety and security.
Upon their arrest, authorities discovered the suspects in possession of 40 explosives, along with various explosive accessories, underscoring the magnitude of their operations and the potential for large-scale disruption and harm.
The capture of this syndicate is a major victory for law enforcement agencies, which have been intensifying their efforts to combat the illegal trade and use of explosives in South Africa.
This operation is part of the broader OPERATION SHANELA, initiated by SAPS in May 2023, aimed at dismantling networks involved in the illegal explosives trade.
Since the launch of the operation, police forces have conducted numerous roadblocks, tracing operations, and stop-and-search activities, resulting in the seizure of an astonishing 11,481 explosives and the arrest of 173 suspects. These efforts highlight the commitment of South African law enforcement to curbing the menace of illegal explosives and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
The successful operation in Welkom marks a significant step forward in the fight against organized crime and the illegal explosives trade in South Africa.
As the suspects face the legal consequences of their actions, the focus remains on continuing to disrupt criminal networks and prevent the use of explosives in criminal activities.
The broader impact of these efforts is expected to contribute to a reduction in the frequency and severity of explosive-related crimes, providing a safer environment for all South Africans.
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