Pensioner attacked in home, police warn of rise in incidents in Rynfield and Farrarmere

Police warn of an increase of house robbery and break-in in Farrarmere and Rynfield.

February 15, 2025

Jani de Beer 2 minutes read

A recent spike in house break-ins and robberies has the Benoni SAPS on high alert.

Although not divulging the exact number of cases reported, Captain Nomsa Sekele, spokesperson for Benoni SAPS, confirmed that its team is concerned by the increased number of incidents since mid-January.

She further confirmed that target areas include Rynfield and Farrarmere.

“We have not yet been able to ascertain whether a syndicate is operating within the affected areas nor have we established a clear modus operandi,” she said.

“Investigations have not yet found a pattern which could link the various cases as each incident differs.”

In the most recent incident, a 71-year-old Farrarmere resident was admitted to hospital in a serious but stable condition, following a home invasion.

“On January 27, at 16:00, it is alleged the victim was outside her home when she was approached by a vagrant asking for food,” she said.

“The victim was unable to assist and went back inside her home.”

Hearing her dogs growling, the woman went into the lounge to investigate, finding the vagrant inside her home.

“The suspect, a man wearing dark clothes and believed to be in his 30s, assaulted the victim while demanding valuables,” said Sekele.

“Responding to her cries for help, the victim’s husband rushed to her aid, prompting the suspect to flee over the wall.”

Police are currently investigating the matter and are requesting anyone with information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts to contact Detective Warrant Officer Marlize Benn on 011 747 0115.

Anonymous reports can be made to CrimeStop on 08600 10111 by using the My SAPS App.

Benoni Police Station’s Detective Warrant Officer Marlize Benn, is looking for this man in connection with the assault of a 71-year-old Farrarmere resident, following a home invasion on January 27.

Given the recent spite of crime, Sekele urged residents to re-evaluate their home security ensuring that primary entrances are optimally secured.

• Ensure that all doors and windows are closed and locked
Regularly test locking mechanisms ensuring that they are in optimal working condition.

• Employ mechanisms to prevent sliding gates and doors from being lifted from their rails.

• Do not leave emergency spare keys in places that could be easily found by criminals.

• Ensure that security systems are linked to reputable private security companies which offer armed response.
Regularly test that distress calls are received by the control room and that security personnel respond timeously.

Additional features such as door and window sensors as well as CCTV cameras will offer an additional safety buffer.

“Ask your security company to display its sign boards around your property as a means of deterring criminal activity,” said Sekele.

• Improve visibility around your home at night by installing outdoor lighting.
“Criminals do some of their best work in the dark,” she said.

“Light is a good deterrent and makes it easier to spot would-be criminals inside your property.”

• Know your neighbours.
“When communities stand united, keeping an eye on their neighbours and acting when they see anything suspicious, criminals do not stand a chance,” she said.