(Archive photo)
The police in Bothaville in the Free State are investigating a case of house robbery after an elderly couple was overpowered and robbed by attackers on their farm on Sunday evening.
The couple, 77 and 80 years old, were waited on at their home by three unknown men at 20:00. The attackers were reportedly wearing gloves and their faces were covered.
Sgt. Palesa Thabana, police spokesperson, says one of the attackers apparently hit the man on the head with a hammer while the other two attackers held the woman.
“The suspects led the elderly couple into the house and assaulted them with a steel pipe. The attackers looted cash during the incident and it is claimed that one of the attackers was armed.”
The couple were reportedly instructed to sit on the bed and their hands were tied.
The attackers ransacked the bedroom before fleeing the scene.
Thabana says a firearm, the woman’s clothes and shoes, as well as an unknown amount of cash were looted during the incident.
(Archive photo: SA Police)
The couple untangled themselves around 11.30pm and called the police. Both victims suffered minor injuries during the incident.
No one has been arrested yet.
The couple has meanwhile been identified on social media as Piet and Joheen Bouwer.
Erna Joubert writes in a Facebook post that it is, however, a disturbing reminder that farm attacks are now also a reality in Bothaville. “After a time of relative silence, we are once again confronted with the reality of crime that sows uncertainty and fear in our rural communities. We are grateful to everyone who responded immediately. Especially the farmers and community members who unceasingly followed up leads throughout the night and are still busy with it,” reads her post.
She says the incident serves as a serious warning to step up vigilance.
“Safety measures, good communication between neighbors and community cooperation remain crucial. We cannot afford to become complacent.”
- The police appeal to anyone with information that can help with investigations or lead to the arrest of the suspects to capt. Call Maleme on 082 466 7923 or call the Stop Crime number on 08600 10111.