Seven Lesotho nationals appeared in the Ficksburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, facing armed robbery charges linked to a brazen ATM bombing in Clarens on 14 May.
The accused — Letuka Mokoiliti (30), Mashele Hlabathe (31), Lechesa Sehlako (24), Mathunya Seeta (27), Koena Sello (29), Matela Morai (24), and Morena Makhobolo — were arrested after a swift and coordinated response by Ficksburg SAPS. Their efforts culminated in a dramatic early-morning vehicle chase on 17 May that led to the capture of all seven suspects.
At around 01:00, police spotted a Toyota Fortuner near an ATM in Ficksburg with two men attempting to tamper with the machine. As officers approached, the suspects fled, triggering a pursuit. Five occupants — including a woman — were caught in the Fortuner, while the two at the ATM were also detained soon after.
Recovered at the scene was stained cash, believed to be from the ATM bombing, and the getaway vehicle was impounded. Authorities confirmed all suspects are foreign nationals from Lesotho, with four reportedly undocumented.
The Provincial Serious, Violent and Murder Unit has taken over the investigation. The suspects are due back in court on 5 June for a bail hearing, which the State plans to strongly oppose.
