He added that the suspect is expected to make an appearance in the Musina Magistrate’s Court soon, where he will face charges related to the possession of illegal explosives.

Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended the police officers for their vigilance and swift action.

"The interception of these explosives is a significant achievement in our ongoing efforts to combat crime and protect our communities. We will continue to strengthen security measures at all entry points to prevent such illegal activities," said Lieutenant General Hadebe.

Mashaba further revealed that the explosives discovered on the truck are typically used in devastating ATM bombings, high-stakes cash-in-transit heists, and dangerous illegal mining operations.

Previously, The Star reported that a group of around 30 suspects allegedly bombed five FNB ATMs at Jubilee Mall in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria. The suspects also broke into a shop and detonated explosives on a drop safe during the heist.

The suspects fled the scene, prompting a fierce shootout with police and private security officers. During the exchange of gunfire, a security officer was shot and wounded.

No arrests have been made so far, and authorities are still working to determine the exact amount of money stolen during the daring heist.

In his State of the Province Address (SOPA), Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi unveiled an ambitious strategy to combat crime through advanced technology and strengthened private partnerships. He emphasised that the province could no longer rely on outdated methods, stating that modern challenges demand modern solutions.

“Together with the private sector, we have identified and profiled 422 kingpins that are causing the worst crimes in our province. These 442 kingpins are responsible for cash-in-transits, kidnapping, hijackings, rented murder, ATM bombings, blue-light gangs and business robberies. Instead of waiting for them to commit crimes, we have put full-time surveillance around them,” he had said.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za