ATM bombings – don’t think it can’t happen to you
Shrapnel can fly hundreds of metres.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/20/2017/01/keypad-232056_960_7_11839.jpg)
The police has issued safety tips regarding the bombing of ATMs.
This crime reared its ugly head in 2006 and has since spiralled out of control. The police advise the public regarding the following:
• When approaching an ATM and finding it has been damaged, report it to 10111 immediately in the following cases:
– If an ATM has been damaged or if any unknown items protrude from it
– If smoke or flames are visible at or in the machine as this is a sure sign of a pending explosion. Move away from the ATM immediately
– In case of suspicious activity/ persons at or near an ATM
• Once the charges have been activated there is nothing one can do to deactivate the explosives
• Shrapnel and debris from an explosion can fly several hundred metres
• People must be moved away as far as possible and take cover behind something solid, such as a building
Also read
Police release photos of ATM bombers
Casual ATM bombing in Helderkruin