Mthembu was using an Absa ATM on Mandela Street in the Witbank CBD on Sunday when an armed man approached him, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala said.

"The suspect came from behind and pointed a firearm at him and instructed him to draw all his money from his account.

"Mr Mthembu turned around and unfortunately a shot went off and hit him in the cheek."

Mohlala said the armed man and three alleged accomplices went to Mthembu's car. Four of Mthembu's friends were waiting in the car. They allegedly robbed Mthembu and his friends of their money and cellphones.

"Mr Mthembu was rushed to the Witbank hospital, where he is in a serious but stable condition," Mohlala said.

A case of armed robbery was opened.

A family member told the Citizen newspaper: "We don't know exactly what happened, but Jackson has indeed been shot, and we are deeply shocked and worried.

"It is not clear how many times he was shot, but he is in hospital as we speak. I think the shooting was politically motivated."

Sapa