Note to Editors: Please find attached English and Sesotho soundbites by Cllr Diphapang Mofokeng and Afrikaans soundbite by Cllr Anelia Smit.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Nketoana calls on the South African Police Service (SAPS) to act swiftly and decisively to trace and arrest those responsible for the FNB ATM bombing in Lindley during the early hours of this morning, at approximately 01:28. The ATM is located approximately 200 metres from the police station. The explosions occurred approximately four to five times over a period of about 20 minutes.
Lindley is a small and historically peaceful town where residents have, for many years, lived together in harmony. An incident of this nature is deeply concerning and has understandably left members of our community feeling anxious and fearful. Crime and violence have no place in our community. The safety and security of Lindley’s residents must remain a priority, and those responsible must face the full consequences of the law.
The impact of this incident extends beyond the immediate crime scene. Many residents, particularly elderly people and SASSA grant beneficiaries, rely on local ATMs to access pension and grant money for their everyday needs. Any disruption to ATM services could cause significant inconvenience and hardship for vulnerable voters who depend on easy access to cash.
The economic impact on a small town such as Lindley must also not be underestimated. Local businesses rely on residents and visitors having access to banking facilities and cash to support economic activity. Disruption to these services may therefore affect individual residents, local shops, businesses and the wider economy.
Furthermore, Lindley serves residents from surrounding communities and neighbouring towns. Reduced banking access could therefore place additional pressure on alternative facilities in other towns.
The DA will follow developments in this case closely and engage with the relevant authorities to ensure that the investigation receives the attention it requires. We also encourage anyone with information that could assist SAPS to come forward and report it.
Lindley residents deserve to feel safe, and criminals must know that they will be held accountable.