Phuthaditjhaba ATMs Bombed, Security Guard Shot, 11 Flee

ATM BOMBINGSPhuthaditjhaba CBDMINUTE PULSE NEWS

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Police have confirmed that 11 suspects fled with an undisclosed amount of cash after bombing ATMs in the Phuthaditjhaba CBD. A security guard was shot and injured during the incident, raising concerns about the safety of security personnel and residents.

Two ATMs were bombed in the Phuthaditjhaba CBD in the Eastern Free State on Friday, 16 October 2026. Police say a private security officer was shot and injured before 11 suspects fled with two bags believed to contain cash.

The attack is the latest in a series of ATM bombings across the region, which community members say has left residents and security staff living in fear.

Key facts

Two ATMs were bombed in the Phuthaditjhaba CBD on Friday, 16 October.
Police say 11 suspects fled with two bags believed to hold an undisclosed amount of cash.
A security officer was shot in the hip and arm and taken to hospital, and his firearm was reportedly stolen.
Similar attacks were reported in Moemaneng, Marquard, days earlier, and at Naledi Mall in Phuthaditjhaba and in Kestell in September.

What happened

Police spokesman Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said the security officer was in a vehicle recording kilometre readings when two armed suspects confronted him. He was shot before the two ATMs were bombed with explosives. Police reported that 11 suspects left the scene with two bags believed to contain cash.

The guard was taken to hospital for treatment. Police said his firearm was reportedly stolen. The amount of money taken has not been disclosed.

Background and context

Daily Sun reports a growing number of ATM bombings across the Eastern Free State. The latest incident came just days after an ATM was bombed in Moemaneng, Marquard, and follows attacks at Naledi Mall in Phuthaditjhaba and in Kestell last month.

Community leader Motswahae Seruwe said such bombings often cause extensive structural damage to buildings and nearby properties and put the lives of guards, residents and nearby workers at risk. He said, "We cannot continue living in fear", and called on police to increase visibility and patrols around the CBD and other vulnerable areas.

Community member Mosele Mofokeng said explosive attacks leave business owners facing costly repairs, disrupt trading and frighten people who rely on these facilities for their banking.

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What this means for you

If you live or work in the CBD. Residents say the explosions have happened late at night, and that damage can reach neighbouring businesses. Business owners nearby may face repair costs and disruption to trading, according to community members.

If you have information. Police are still working to identify the suspects. Anyone with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

Security staff. The shooting of a guard has raised concerns about the safety of security personnel, who are often the first on the scene.

What happens next

Police say their investigation will establish how the attacks were carried out, identify the suspects and determine whether the cases are connected.
Community leaders are calling for more police patrols in the CBD.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in Phuthaditjhaba?

Two ATMs were bombed in the CBD on Friday, 16 October 2026. Police say 11 suspects fled with two bags believed to contain cash after a security officer was shot.