An ATM at a Caltex garage in Kibler Park was bombed in the early hours of June 25, marking another incident in a series of similar attacks targeting ATMs in Alberton, Joburg South, and surrounding areas.
Three people tragically lost their lives due to the ATM bombing incidents, leaving the community in shock and mourning as families and friends grapple with the sudden loss of their loved ones.
Stephanus Albertus Klopper, known as Bertie, was a Fox Security officer killed in the line of duty while attending the crime scene of an ATM bombing in Mayfield Park on June 18.
A memorial was held for him on the same day when the community, his family and friends gathered at the Engen garage in Mayfield Park to honour Bertie’s memory.
In another incident, two residents were fatally wounded after an ATM was bombed at an Eden Park supermarket on June 10.
It is reported that three suspects broke the lock at the gate and entered the premises. Shortly after, explosions and shots were heard.
ALSO READ: 2 residents killed in Eden Park ATM bombing
People falling victim to scams and crimes at ATMs is common, and many residents have become very conscious of their surroundings when using them.
SAPS gives these tips to help residents protect themselves:
- Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using an ATM.
- Never give your card or PIN (Personal Identification Number) to anyone, for any reason.
- Don’t write your PIN on the card or anything that’s kept with the card.
- Don’t insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen.
- Never use an ATM with a blank screen and if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM.
- Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as a shield, to make sure nobody sees you keying in your pin.
- Make sure to keep your hand over the card slot, so that nobody can swap or take your card.
- Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM. You should be wary of strangers asking for help.
- Criminals work in teams – one to distract you, while the other steals your card or money.
- If your card is retained (‘swallowed’) by the ATM, it’s advisable to phone your bank’s toll-free stop card line immediately and stop your card.
- Never allow bystanders to call the toll-free stop card line on your behalf – they could be tricking you into thinking your card has been stopped.
- Guards are placed at ATMs to discourage criminal activities and therefore can’t help you with transactions.
- If you need help, ask a bank official.
- It’s advisable to set a daily ATM withdrawal limit at your branch.
