The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Gauteng, working with private security partners and other law-enforcement stakeholders, has arrested three suspects and recovered a significant quantity of explosives during an intelligence-driven operation in Matholesville, Roodepoort, on Tuesday, 01 September 2026.
The multidisciplinary team, comprising members of SAPS Crime Intelligence, the Ivory Park Task Team, Gauteng Traffic SLEU, private security companies and the West Rand Explosives United, acted on information about a suspected supplier of explosives allegedly providing material to individuals involved in ATM bombings, cash-in-transit (CIT) robberies and illegal mining activities.
Explosives and vehicle recovered
Officers proceeded to a premises in Matholesville where they found two men and a woman. A search of the property led to the recovery of 88 safety fuses, 62 blasting cartridges and approximately 400 metres of detonating cord. The explosives have been estimated street value of R160 000.
A white Toyota Etios displaying false registration plates was also seized for further investigation.
Suspects face charges
All three suspects, who are Zimbabwean nationals, were arrested on charges of possession of explosives. They are expected to appear in court soon.
Commendation from provincial leadership
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Gauteng, Major General Fred Kekana, commended the multidisciplinary team for the successful intelligence-led operation.
Investigations continue
Investigations are continuing to establish possible links between the suspects and other ATM bombing, CIT robbery and illegal mining incidents in the province.
SAPS continues to urge members of the public to report any suspicious activity related to explosives or organised crime to the nearest police station or through official crime-reporting channels.