A Middelburg resident managed to overpower and apprehend an intruder who allegedly broke into his home and stabbed him three times on Wednesday (July 22).

The victim cannot be identified due to the ongoing investigation.

Sylvester Mabuza (40) made his initial appearance in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court yesterday (July 23), facing charges of house burglary and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Nonhlanhla Mdluli, the homeowner returned to his residence in the afternoon to find an unknown man inside the property.

Struggle inside home

Mdluli said a struggle ensued, during which the intruder allegedly grabbed the homeowner and stabbed him three times with a knife.

Despite his injuries, the victim managed to subdue the suspect until the police arrived.

“The police searched the suspect and found a knife on his person,” Mdluli said, adding that officers also discovered a broken window and bent burglar bars.

Mabuza was arrested at the scene.

Bail denied

During his court appearance, bail was denied, and the matter was postponed to July 29 for a formal bail application.