30 Armed Robbers Storm Pretoria Mall, Blew Up ATMs, and Shoot Security Guard

A wave of terror swept through Hammanskraal in the early hours of March 16 when a gang of approximately 30 heavily armed criminals stormed Jubilee Mall, bombing five ATMs and engaging in a deadly shootout with police and private security.

The daring heist unfolded around 1:30 AM, with the robbers—armed with explosives and high-caliber firearms—launching a coordinated attack on the mall’s ATMs, leaving chaos and destruction in their wake.

According to Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, the robbers were confronted by police officers and private security guards as they attempted to flee. A violent gun battle erupted, during which a security officer was shot and wounded.

“A shootout ensued between the suspects, police officers, and private security. One of the security officers sustained gunshot wounds and was taken to a nearby medical facility for treatment,” Masondo confirmed.

No arrests have been made so far, and police are still hunting for the suspects. The exact amount of cash stolen remains undetermined. Shocked residents reported hearing multiple loud explosions as the suspects used explosives to blow up the ATMs. Witnesses described scenes of panic as gunfire echoed through the area.

“I was woken up by the sound of explosions and gunfire. It was terrifying. We thought it was a war zone,” said a resident who lives near the mall.

In a statement posted on social media, the management of Jubilee Mall expressed their shock and sadness over the incident.

“We are saddened to inform our shoppers that a robbery occurred at our premises on March 16, 2025. The safety of our customers and staff remains our top priority. The mall was temporarily closed to allow police to conduct investigations. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the statement read.

This brazen attack has once again raised concerns about the escalating crime levels in Gauteng, where ATM bombings and cash-in-transit heists have become increasingly common.

Community members have expressed frustration over the lack of police visibility in the area and called for stricter security measures to protect businesses and residents.

“We are living in fear. Criminals are becoming more violent and fearless. The police need to do more to protect us,” said a local shop owner.

The police have urged anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to come forward.

“We are appealing to members of the community to assist us in identifying these criminals. Any information, no matter how small, can help us bring these dangerous individuals to justice,” Masondo said.

As investigations continue, the Hammanskraal community remains on edge, hoping for justice and an end to the reign of terror by these ruthless criminals.