BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MANKAYANE — Eswatini Bank has confirmed an ATM bombing incident in Mankayane, assuring the public that swift action is being taken in collaboration with law enforcement authorities as investigations continue.
In an official statement, the bank acknowledged that one of its Automated Teller Machines was targeted in the early hours of the morning, noting that details remain limited at this stage due to ongoing investigations being led by the Royal Eswatini Police Service, working closely with the bank’s internal teams.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:30am, when a group of six suspects allegedly used explosives to access the ATM and steal an undisclosed amount of cash. A security guard who was on duty during the attack described a frightening experience as the suspects executed the operation under the cover of darkness.
Demonstrating strong coordination between the bank and law enforcement, five suspects were arrested within hours of the incident at Kadeda while attempting to flee towards Sicunusa. The suspects, believed to be of South African origin, were found with cash suspected to have been stolen during the bombing.
Eswatini Bank management expressed appreciation for the swift response by the Royal Eswatini Police Service, commending their ongoing efforts to apprehend those responsible and restore public confidence.
The bank has also prioritised customer convenience and continuity of service, encouraging clients in the affected area to make use of alternative banking channels, including ShareSha Agents, digital banking platforms, and nearby branches while the situation is being resolved.
Investigations remain ongoing, with authorities continuing the search for the sixth suspect still at large.
Eswatini Bank has assured the public that it remains committed to the safety of its infrastructure and the security of customer funds, while working closely with stakeholders to ensure stability and resilience within the country’s banking sector.
