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A third burglary early on Thursday, 18 January, targeted the African Transformation Movement (ATM) offices in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, following two previous break-ins on 15 and 16 January.
Party spokesperson Zama Ntshona confirmed the incident, stating that he had received a call from the head office about the intrusion. "This was the third one in a row," Ntshona emphasised, adding that the guards on duty had been unable to respond due to the invaders being heavily armed.
The perpetrators gained access through the back, breaking a window to enter the building.
"At this stage, there's nothing left for them to find that they couldn't get in the first two days," Ntshona said, reiterating that, during the initial burglaries, electric fences and alarms had been disabled, and six laptops stolen.
"Shockingly, critical documents, hard drives and other essential information were also taken, while our files and diaries were scattered in a deliberate act of desecration," Ntshona said.
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[READ] The ATM Head Office faced a brazen burglary for the SECOND time in two days! This isn't just a break-in – it's an attack on democracy. Documents, devices, and information stolen point to sinister motives. In an election year, these tactics won't shake us. We stand… pic.twitter.com/kMSk328IJO
— African Transformation Movement (@ATMovement_SA) January 17, 2024
In a statement, the party said:
"We caution those responsible that such actions will not deter us from our mission to serve the people and uphold their rights."
A case of burglary was registered at the Mthatha Police Station on 16 January 2024.
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The ATM expressed particular concern about the burglars' return for a second time within a two-day span, suggesting a deliberate and targeted effort to acquire specific information or devices, which thankfully remained secure.
The party emphasised:
The ATM called on law enforcement agencies to expedite their efforts in apprehending the perpetrators.
"The ATM, however, remains unshaken in its commitment to the principles of democracy and the pursuit of a corruption-free society," they declared. They urged their members and the community to stand firm with them during this challenging time, confident that justice will prevail.
