LINDLEY – At least five suspects are being sought following an ATM bombing in George Leon Street, Lindley, in the early hours of Monday morning.

The incident occurred at approximately 01:25 on 31 August, when two members of the Lindley Visible Policing Unit allegedly heard three loud explosions while conducting patrol duties.

Three witnesses subsequently ran to the police station and reported that an ATM in town had been bombed.

Police responded to the area and discovered that an FNB ATM near a filling station in George Leon Street had been blown up. The scene was secured and relevant role-players were summoned to assist with the investigation.

According to one of the witnesses, at least five suspects were seen near the ATM during the explosions. The suspects allegedly fled the scene in a blue Audi sedan bearing registration number KT 71 VL GP.

At least five suspects were seen near the ATM

Police have opened a case of malicious damage to property relating to ATM bombing, as well as a contravention of the Explosives Act 26 of 1956, Regulation 27(1).

The Serious and Violent Crimes Unit in the Free State is investigating the incident and is appealing to anyone with information that could assist in identifying and locating the suspects to come forward.

Information can be provided to Colonel Msokoli Bolsiek on 082 466 8530, via the MySAPS app, or through SAPS Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

The incident has also prompted concern from the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Nketoana, which has called on SAPS to act swiftly to trace and arrest those responsible.

The DA said the bombing was particularly concerning in Lindley, which it described as a small and historically peaceful town.

The bombing is concerning

The party also highlighted the potential impact on residents who depend on local ATM facilities, including elderly people and SASSA grant beneficiaries.

According to the DA, the disruption could also affect local businesses and residents from surrounding communities who rely on Lindley’s banking facilities.

The DA said it would monitor developments and engage with the relevant authorities regarding the investigation.

Police have urged anyone with information about the bombing or the suspects to report it to investigators.

The investigation is ongoing.

ALSO READ: Three ATM bombing suspects killed during shootout with police in Mahikeng