Tourist robbed of his bank card
Three suspects were arrested , they are expected to appear at the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court today
The community is warned to be extra vigilant when using Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) .
This comes after an international tourist was robbed of his bank card while using one of the ATMs on Tuesday.
Subsequent to the incident, the 72-Hour Activation Plan was immediately carried out in which relevant resources, including the Tactical Response Team (TRT) and Net-star were deployed. The police were able to make a breakthrough within a short space of time.
Also read: ATM bombers suspects denied bail
According to police information, the suspects after robbing the victim, jumped into a white Volkswagen Polo and fled the scene.
“The team spotted and cornered the vehicle around the bus terminus in the City of Mbombela, arrested the trio and also seized two vehicles in the process,” explained Brigadier Leonard Hlathi, spokesperson for the police.
According to Hlathi, a preliminary investigation suggests that the trio is part of a group that is specialising in robbing people, cloning bank cards, stealing items out of motor vehicles and other prevalent criminal activities.
Also read: Be vigilant when using the ATM
The three suspects aged between 35 and 39, are expected to appear at the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court today. They are facing a charge of theft. “They are currently being profiled to establish their involvement in other crimes,” adds Hlathi.
Lt Gen Mondli Zuma, the provincial commissioner indicated that members of the police are already out and about under the banner of Festive Season Operation which embodies other operations like Safer Fridays.
“No stone will be left unturned as the police will work tirelessly without fear, favour or prejudice in ensuring that our people enjoy a safe festive season and beyond,” concludes Zuma.
