Cape Town - An ATM at a popular Cape Winelands farmstall outside Stellenbosch was blasted apart in an attack by armed robbers on Wednesday morning.
Police spokesman FC van Wyk said police were called at about 2am from the Lynedoch Service Station on Baden Powell Road, adjacent to the Annandale Road intersection.
“On arrival, they found the petrol attendants, who alleged that five males wearing dark clothes, balaclavas and gloves entered the garage.
“Two of the suspects were armed with AK47s and one had a pistol. The petrol attendants were hiding in their office.
“Shortly thereafter, three loud explosions were heard, whereafter the suspects fled the scene.
“Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident.
“The suspects are yet to be arrested,” he said.
Van Wyk said it was not yet clear whether the gang had managed to take any cash – and the bank in question was still investigating this.
“The spate of ATM bombings is worrisome to the police and every endeavour is made to apprehend those responsible.
“We once again want to warn ATM users to exercise caution when using these machines, especially during the early hours of the morning. Never challenge suspicious persons in the vicinity, they could be armed and dangerous,” he warned.
Barry Zetler, a member of the family who owns the filling station, said only the ATM had been blown up and there was only minor further damage.
“We’re glad there were no serious injuries,” he said.
Cape Argus