PHALABORWA – Police in Namakgale have arrested a 23-year-old man in connection with a house robbery and business burglary in Tlapeng Village in the early hours of Sunday (January 18).

Violent early morning home invasion

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba says the incident was reported at approximately 02:00.

“According to the reports, the suspect unlawfully entered a residence where a 40-year-old woman was asleep. He confronted her while armed with a wooden stick and a broken beer bottle, demanding money and assaulting her, causing injuries.”

The suspect is accused of stealing an undisclosed amount of cash and three point-of-sale (speed point) devices valued at R9 800.

Further burglary discovered on premises

Investigations also revealed that a tavern within the same property had been broken into, with 15 cases of liquor valued at approximately R29 420 reported stolen.

The injured victim was assisted by a neighbour and taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Investigation leads to an arrest

Following investigative work, the suspect was later traced and apprehended. The stolen property has not yet been recovered.

“He is expected to appear before the local Magistrate’s Court to face charges of house robbery and business burglary,” says Ledwaba.

Police investigations are continuing.