An intelligence-driven operation led to the arrest of a suspect found in possession of dye-stained banknotes believed to be linked to ATM bombing incidents in the Bojanala Platinum District.
The arrest follows intelligence received on Thursday, 9 July 2026, regarding individuals allegedly depositing dye-stained banknotes into various bank accounts in the Bojanala Platinum District.
Investigations, conducted in collaboration with bank investigators, established a link between the deposits and a bank account.
Acting on further intelligence, members of the Bojanala Crime Intelligence Unit, together with the Brits Trio Task Team (TRT), conducted a tactical operation on Friday, 17 July 2026, at a residence in Seraleng, close to Boitekong.
During the operation, police searched the premises and found dye-stained banknotes, which the suspect was unable to account for.
The 52-year-old male suspect, who is a Lesotho migrant, was subsequently arrested for possession of suspected dye-stained banknotes and charged accordingly.
The possibility of linking the suspect to ATM bombings in the Bojanala District is evident, as investigators seized clothing from the suspect’s residence that will undergo forensic examination.
Furthermore, the identification of more suspects linked to the investigation is expected.
The 52-year-old suspect will appear before the Rustenburg Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 20 July 2026, for possession of dye-stained banknotes.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, said this arrest demonstrates the value of intelligence-driven policing and the close cooperation between specialised units and key stakeholders. He commended all members involved in the operation and assured the community that investigations are continuing to ensure that all those responsible are brought before the court.
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