One bystander and two criminals dead, following ATM bombing
Tragic news for Newcastillians, three people are dead following an ATM robbery in Madadeni.
Newcastle SAPS spokesperson, Captain Jabulani Ncube explains that upon receiving the report, local police officers responded to investigate. However, they where met with extreme violence and firepower.

A shootout ensued between the SAPS and the perpetrators. During the shooting, three bystanders were shot. One of which died shortly afterwards.
The suspects managed to escape arrest, speeding towards the Utrecht Road in their getaway vehicle. With SAPS in hot pursuit, calling in reinforcements from neighbouring police stations, a deadly chase unfolded. Desperate to escape arrest, the suspects opened fire on the police during the high intensity car chase.
With SAPS officials and the suspects escaping injury, the pursuit continued to KwaMdakane near Dannhauser. This proved to be their undoing. The SAPS surrounded a homestead where the perpetrators were hiding.
Approaching the homestead, the criminals in an act of final defiance opened fire against the police. Retaliating, the police shot and killed two of the men. The remaining suspects managed to escape during the final shootout.
Three firearms, an AK47 rifle, an R5 rifle and a pistol were recovered from the scene.
A manhunt is currently under way and police are hoping to close in on the final suspects. Cases of armed robbery, murder and possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition now await the suspects on their arrest.
KwaZulu-Natal Acting Provincial Commisioner, Major General Bheki Langa is concerned about criminal attacking police who are going about their daily duties. “Our police officers always come under attack when approaching armed suspects. That cannot be tolerated,” he emphasised.