Robbers have been very busy in the City of Coal.
Two robberies took place on Wednesday, July 10.
The first incident took place in Model Park, leaving a family traumatised after unwelcome visitors invaded their home.
The victim, who wished to stay anonymous, described the ordeal as follows: “We had just arrived home around 19:00. As I was closing the garage door, I noticed an unknown man pointing a firearm at me.
Two other men, heavily armed, appeared from nowhere and also pointed firearms at me. They tied me up with a rope but left my child and wife unharmed, locking us in a room. My wife later managed to activate the alarm for help.”
He mentioned that nothing seemed suspicious upon their arrival, and suspects might have been lurking in the dark or gaining access as the gate closed.
Fortunately, no one was injured, and investigations are ongoing.
The suspects allegedly swept through the house, taking a television, sound system, and other appliances, which they left in the garage before fleeing with the family car.
He added, “The car was tracked down and found near a shopping mall the same day. However, other stolen items, including watches, necklaces, and phones, remain missing.”
It is alleged that the suspects also transferred an undisclosed amount from the victim’s account, but the bank was able to retrieve the money.
The second home robbery occurred in the Central Business District on Hertzog Street, where robbers fled with clothes and shoes.
According to reports, the suspects broke into the victim’s room around 2:00 while she was sleeping.
Two armed suspects threatened to kill the victim if she did not cooperate and took her clothes and shoes, even threatening to sexually assault her.
Sergeant David Ratua from Witbank Police Station provided safety tips:
“Ensure that your gates are locked at all times and that the keys cannot be easily reached or left lying around. Security gates with sturdy locks in front of each outer door, as well as burglar-proofing on all windows, are recommended.
An alarm system, preferably connected to an armed response company, can be an effective deterrent. A few panic buttons in different rooms of the house should be installed.
An alarm must also be capable of warning the occupants of any intrusion. Large dogs serve as a deterrent; at least one dog should be trained to sleep inside the house.”
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