Two men are wanted for the alleged attempted mugging of three female domestic workers on Leonora Drive, just after 8am this morning.

The men, reportedly armed with knives, jumped out of the natural bush at the top of the street and attempted to steal the women’s handbags and valuables.

A passing taxi fortunately stopped to help and caused the two suspects to flee back into the bush. They were later able to avoid security teams that swept the area.

None of the women were injured and had nothing stolen.

This according to Ballito resident Donna Siebbeles, who employs one of the domestic workers and was the first to report the incident to security services.

Siebbeles said she believes domestic workers are becoming increasingly scared when walking to and from work on Leonora Drive.

“Many now wait for one another and walk in groups. It would help if the bush was cleared so perpetrators can’t hide there,” she said.

This is not the first incident reported in the area. Ballito Neighbourhood Watch chairperson Morne Steffens said the natural bush is known as a frequent hiding spot for vagrants and criminals.

“Despite numerous requests for the area to be cut back, it remains heavily overgrown and continues to be a haven for suspects,” said Steffens.

“That same section of bush is also where perpetrators jump over the walls into Freda Road, where several incidents have been recorded recently.”

Steffens urged residents to warn their domestic workers to remain vigilant, especially when walking near overgrown areas and parks.

“Domestic workers are increasingly becoming targets. It’s advisable for them to walk in groups and this applies to residents who use that road daily as well,” he said.

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