A notorious criminal nicknamed Jumping Jack brutally attacked an elderly resident in Pinetown on Wednesday 30 October at approximately 3pm, resulting in a massive search conducted by SACANN, SAPS as well as several local neighbourhood watches and security companies.
Mike Thomas (71) had gone to the cottage in the back of his property to close the building’s windows when he was attacked.
“He was busy closing the sliding door in order to put on the alarm when a man approached him from behind. He started assaulting my husband. Mike tried to fight back and defend himself as the man kicked, hit and threatened to stab him with a screwdriver,” said Kerry Thomas, his wife.
Kerry assumed that the intruder was trying to hide or break into their cottage and Mike had disturbed him.
“I also went to the cottage when I thought that my husband was gone for too long. When I looked into the window I saw the man, screamed and ran to press the panic button,” said Kerry.
Andreas Mathios, of Pro-Act Neighbourhood Watch, reported that he received a report through SACANN stating residents were being attacked in their home, and he subsequently informed SAPS and the other authorities.
“Within three to five minutes the authorities responded and we initiated a search, but were unable to capture the suspect. The suspect is extremely elusive and has been evading us for a while. He would run in one direction, jump over a wall and then change direction,” said Matios.
According to Kerry, Mike suffered various bruises, grazes and broken ribs during the assault, but is recovering slowly.
