Festive Season Alert: Police Warn of Rising ATM Robberies as Criminals Target Holiday Cash Withdrawals

Festive Season Alert: Police Warn of Rising ATM Robberies as Criminals Target Holiday Cash Withdrawals

South African authorities have issued a strong warning ahead of the festive season following a noticeable increase in criminal activities, particularly robberies linked to cash withdrawals.

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December is traditionally a period of heightened financial activity, with many people withdrawing money to meet holiday expenses. Police say criminals are exploiting this trend by closely monitoring banks and ATMs, targeting individuals who withdraw large sums of cash.

In multiple advisories shared on social media and through official channels, law enforcement agencies cautioned against walking alone to banks or ATMs. They warned that con artists and robbers often observe customers during withdrawals before launching coordinated attacks, sometimes involving two or more perpetrators working together.

The warning follows a disturbing incident on December 16, when a woman was attacked shortly after withdrawing R10,000 from an ATM. According to reports, she noticed two men acting suspiciously as she completed her transaction. The men allegedly followed her and later accosted her in a deserted area, demanding money.

Despite attempting to resist, the woman was overpowered and assaulted. The attackers fled the scene with the cash, leaving her injured. She was later taken to a hospital in the Tzaneen area, where she received medical treatment and is currently recovering. No arrests have been made in connection with the attack.

The incident has sparked mixed reactions online, with many expressing sympathy for the victim, while others criticized what they described as risky behavior. Security experts, however, stress that responsibility lies with criminals, not victims, and emphasize the need for stronger preventive measures.

As public concern grows, there are increasing calls for enhanced security around banks and ATMs, including greater police visibility during peak withdrawal periods. Authorities say they are reviewing strategies to curb festive-season crimes and are urging citizens to remain vigilant, avoid carrying large sums of cash, and seek safer alternatives such as electronic transactions.

The incident underscores the broader challenge of violent crime during the holidays and highlights the need for collective efforts by law enforcement, financial institutions, and communities to ensure public safety during one of the busiest times of the year.

Festive Season Alert: Police Warn of Rising ATM Robberies as Criminals Target Holiday Cash Withdrawals