A man, who is known to the Midrand Reporter, but will not be mentioned by name, was shot and killed in his home during a housebreaking on 26 February.
Constable Matome Tlamela, head of communication at the Midrand Police Station, said the victim, his girlfriend and their children stumbled upon the robbery when they came home at around 9pm that evening.
“According to the victim’s family, they had just driven into the yard when they saw six men,” said Tlamela. The six men all had firearms and forced the family into the house.
“They locked the woman and children in the bedroom,” Tlamela said.
Tlamela said the family said that what sounded like a struggle between the man and the robbers began soon after they were locked in the bedroom. “They then heard two gunshots. The man had been shot and killed onsite.”
The robbers got away with the family’s car, jewellery, R800, cellphones and other household electronics.
The President Park Residents’ Association chairman, John Gainsford weighed in on the situation and said, “As outgoing chair of the association [I have to say] violent house robbery crimes are on the increase.”
Gainsford implored residents to exercise caution. “Although it is instinctive, residents must not be drawn into resisting or fighting back when confronted with armed criminals.
“Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times. If the slightest thing appears to be out of place, rather back off and contact your security company and the police.”
Gainsford said the association sends their condolences to the bereaved family and friends.
Tlamela said they are investigating a case of house robbery and murder. “No arrests have yet been made, however, the family’s car was recovered in Maedi Section in Tembisa. It had been dumped there,” she said.
Details: Midrand Police Station: 011 347 1626.
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