The Herald has been inundated with frantic calls from a family in Mohlakeng who are at their wits’ end as thugs have been terrorising them for two years.
The Nikelo family claims that their home has become a looting ground for gangs living at a nearby infamous hostel in the township.
“We haven’t had any peace for two years now. What’s even more upsetting, is that we know who these thugs are. The fact that they steal from us and get away with it every time is infuriating,” family member Siphiwe Nikelo said.
Nikelo who lives with his elderly mother and his twin brother said housebreakings, robberies and kidnapping by these criminals are the order of the day.
“I once confronted them and told them that I knew what they were doing, but instead they threatened me and said those close to me would be harmed as well. I told them that I would report them to the police, but they were not bothered,” Nikelo said.
He said on numerous occasions they’ve broken into his home to steal TVs, cellphones and appliances – recently they’ve even poisoned his dog.
“Our neighbours’ house was also broken into; they stole a big-screen TV, R1 800 and a cellphone. These people are doing as they please. They don’t have jobs, because they know they can steal from us,” Nikelo said.
“The other issue is that every time we report this, police come with their sirens blaring. I mean that’s just shouting a warning to them. We’ve told the police several times that they should come in quietly but no, it’s like they want to alert them,” Nikelo explained.
Being the only one speaking out against these thugs, Nikelo admitted that he’s scared for his life, believing that somehow they were monitoring his movements.
“We are being terrorised in our own homes, and many are scared to expose these guys. We need help urgently, this must stop. We’re tired of living in fear!” Nikelo said.
