An intruder got more than he bargained for when he was killed during a scuffle with a house owner in Putswasteen, Sharpeville, on Tuesday.

According to the homeowner, the intruder gained entrance through the dining room sliding door and attacked him with a knife. A scuffle ensued and he pushed the intruder away.

Police spokesperson Constable Busisiwe Sango said: “The intruder fell on a vase in the passage of the house where the commotion happened. He sustained a wound on his head and bled to death.”

The homeowner also sustained wounds on his elbows during the scuffle.

“Preliminary investigations suggest this was an act of self-defence. Investigations into the matter continue,” said Sango.

Community members told Sedibeng Ster that unknown burglars had targeted the house several times.

“This is not the first time; they always target that house. We are sure they did not expect to find him (the owner) in the house. He surprised the intruder and good riddance. We are tired of crime,” a resident who wished to remain anonymous said.