According to Tsakane police spokesperson, Capt Petros Mabuza, on Saturday at about 01.55am, it is alleged that about seven suspects went to the Engen garage at the corner Ndabezitha and Pedi streets, carrying shotguns and explosives.
“The suspects managed to bomb the Standard Bank ATM but no money was stolen because they couldn’t open it.
“Police patrolling the area, who were unaware of what was going on, passed by and the suspects opened fire, leaving one officer shot. We suspect that they thought that the police had already heard what was taking place and were responding to the scene of the crime.
“That police officer sustained five bullet wounds on the left hand side of his upper body while he was still in the vehicle,” says Mabuza.
The officer was able to drive away from the scene and was helped by other police officers and an ambulance and taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment, where he is in a stable condition.
The suspects allegedly fled the scene in a silver BMW X5 and a black Range Rover, both without registrations numbers.
A case of attempted murder and ATM bombing is being investigated by the police and anyone with additional information can contact 10 111 or crime line on 32211.
