Three suspects have been arrested and a large quantity of explosives recovered during an intelligence-driven police operation in Matholesville, Roodepoort.
The operation was carried out on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, by a multidisciplinary team involving SAPS Crime Intelligence, the Ivory Park Task Team, Gauteng Traffic SLEU, private security companies and the West Rand Explosives Unit.
Police said the team acted on intelligence about a suspected explosives supplier allegedly providing materials to individuals involved in ATM bombings, cash-in-transit (CIT) robberies and illegal mining.
The team raided a premises in Matholesville, where two men and a woman were found.
A search of the property uncovered 88 safety fuses, 62 blasting cartridges and about 400 metres of detonating cord, with an estimated street value of R160,000.
All three suspects, who are Zimbabwean nationals, were arrested for possession of explosives. They are expected to appear in court soon.
Police also seized a white Toyota Etios fitted with false registration plates. The vehicle will undergo further investigation.
Acting Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana praised the team for the successful operation.
“Investigations are continuing to determine whether the suspects can be linked to other ATM bombings, CIT robberies and illegal mining incidents,” police said.
Authorities say the arrests form part of ongoing efforts to disrupt organised criminal networks involved in violent robberies and the illegal explosives trade.
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