Online Intelligence's Key Role in Project Big-Bang: How Data Analytics Helped Reduce ATM Bombings by 30%

Banking on Data: ATM Bombings Drop 30%

In a groundbreaking collaborative effort, Online Intelligence played a pivotal role in Project Big-Bang, which has successfully reduced ATM bombings in South Africa by 30.7% during the measurement period of November 2024 through January 2025.

The initiative, which brought together multiple stakeholders including SABRIC, the Petroleum Security Initiative, and the South African Police Service, demonstrates the power of cross-industry collaboration in tackling complex and ever evolving security challenges.

A Data-Analytic Approach to Crime Prevention

As a global leader in risk management and mitigation, Online Intelligence contributed specialised data analytics capabilities that were instrumental in identifying patterns and tracking criminal activities.

"This project has proven that when industries collaborate, meaningful change happens," states Mischa Theron, project manager and Online Intelligence representative. "It also highlights how data-driven intelligence can be a powerful force in combating complex security challenges."

The initiative, which ran from May 2024 until January 2025, was formed in response to the alarming 72% increase in ATM bombings from 2019 to 2023, as reported by SABRIC.

Exceeding Expectations

The collaborative task team initially set a target of reducing ATM bombings by 20% compared to the same period in the previous year. Their efforts significantly exceeded this goal, achieving a 30.7% reduction and leading to the identification, tracing and arrests of 46 top perpetrators linked to 69 cases.

Additionally, the operation resulted in the seizure of explosives, vehicles, firearms, clothing used at crime scenes and more than R400,000 in dye-stained cash.

Creating a Comprehensive Understanding

By leveraging their collective analytical expertise, the task team was able to create a detailed picture of how and why ATM bombings occur. This involved identifying key perpetrators and their modus operandi, as well as pinpointing areas where additional data was needed.

These information gaps were often addressed through police collaboration, with arresting officers conducting targeted interviews with suspects to gain deeper insights into these criminal networks.

The Future of Collaborative Security

While the initial scope of Project Big-Bang has concluded, it represents a significant shift in South Africa's approach to crime prevention. The collaboration demonstrates a shared commitment to public safety and sets a precedent for future initiatives.

Nischal Mewalall, CEO of SABRIC, emphasised in a recent interview that the success of the project wasn't just about the numbers but about the game-changing nature of the collaboration itself. "The trick has been the ability to pool our skills, unique skills and resources, to deal with the criminals," Mewalall noted.

For Online Intelligence, the project showcases how specialised intelligence and data analytics can contribute to tangible security improvements when combined with strategic partnerships across different sectors.

Theron hopes that "this success will inspire other industries to form alliances and take a proactive stance in fighting crime," setting a model for future collaborative security initiatives in South Africa and beyond.

For more information about Online Intelligence's risk management and mitigation services, visit our CiiMS Platform page.