Mmabatho Tofile’s home, situated in a complex along Pinotage Street, was broken into around midday on Wednesday, July 12.
A large, open piece of land stretches behind the complex.
“The burglars came in from the back and used a screwdriver to break a small window and a door,” said Mmabatho (39).
“They ransacked our house and took the time to go through every room and cupboard.”
Groceries, clothes and shoes were packed into several bags the burglars had brought with them, and they also helped themselves to a plasma TV and other expensive household items.
They ruined their chances of getting away with the loot, however, when they were seen passing the stolen goods over the perimeter wall by a woman on the neighbouring property.
They were easily spotted as they had used a crate to stand on in order to hand the items safely over the electric fence.
“The woman phoned a local security company, which immediately responded,” said Mmabatho.
Informed about the break-in by a neighbour, Mmabatho rushed home in a panic.
“When we arrived home, we were so grateful to find that all of our stuff had been recovered by the security officers,” she said.
It was a happy ending for the family, who have suffered three break-ins since moving into the complex in 2007.
They praised Ryno van Oudtshoorn and his team from the company, as well as their alert neighbours.
“We just really want to thank them all,” said Mmabatho.
The Tofiles have since signed up with the security company and have made other security improvements to ensure they suffer no more break-ins.
Also read:
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