Student robbed at gunpoint in Westdene
WESTDENE – A student is robbed at gunpoint after robbers gain entry through the front gate.
Suspects escaped with stolen electronics after robbing a commune in Westdene, in the presence of a student on 23 March.
Sophiatown Police Station spokesperson warrant officer TJ de Bruyn said a student came returned from class to his commune when he heard someone shouting at the gate at around 3pm.
He initially ignored it, but upon investigation, he noticed people at the gate.
“The student eventually witnessed them unlocking the gate, using a key. Two suspects who were armed with a gun then knocked on his room door, opened it and ordered him to be quiet,” said de Bruyn.
“They then took his cellphone and laptop and also broke into other rooms in the commune.
An iPad and plasma TV were stolen. We are investigating how the suspects gained entry onto the property using a key.”
He added that the suspects fled in a white Opel bakkie. The case is under investigation and no arrests have been made so far.
De Bruyn offered the following tips for students living in communes:
- Students must not trust anyone who approaches their property insisting on gaining entry
- When you do not know the person, do not open the gate under any circumstances
- Avoid exposing personal possessions when walking in public to avoid being robbed
- Check to see if you are being followed when walking home
- Always lock doors and windows when on your property
- Be careful who has access to the keys to your property
- Report any suspicious behaviour to the police.
Details: Saps 10111
ALSO READ:13 UJ students robbed at gunpoint on campus
