Man held for having ATM bombs
2007-11-27 16:10
Durban - A Welkom man was arrested in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday night after policemen found him with a bag of explosives at a service station, police sources said on Tuesday.
Two police officers from the national intervention unit were having coffee at an Engen service station in KwaDabeka when the man - driving a black Hyundai - entered the premises.
Police said he jumped out of the vehicle with a bag.
"He looked suspicious so the officers questioned him and searched the bag," a captain from the unit said, on condition of anonymity.
"Eight explosive sticks - ready made for ATM blasts - were found in the bag," he said.
Police continued to question the man and the Durban organised crime unit was called in.
"The man later admitted to police he was waiting at the garage for his gang to meet him. They were on their way to blow up ATM machines," he said.
Members from the Durban organised crime unit confirmed the case, but could not comment on the matter.
The unit's head Director Johann Booysen was not immediately available for comment.
Captain Bongain Khomo was not available for comment and provincial spokesperson Phindile Radebe could also not be reached for comment.
The man is expected to appear in the Pinetown Magistrate's Court on Thursday.
- SAPA