Bekkersdal Police have warned the public about armed robbers targeting homes in the Zuurbekom area who do not hesitate to shoot their victims.

According to Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, Bekkersdal Police spokesperson, valuable items such as cellphones, plasma TV sets and electrical appliances are being targeted.

She said in two incidents that took place on the same night (Sunday, 9 August) but in different streets, robbers invaded homes and if victims resisted they were shot. The robberies were committed on Stella and Jean Streets.

She said in the incident on Jean Street, robbers got away with a white Mercedes-Benz C220, registration number FT 16 TC GP, electrical appliances, jewellery items, cellphones and a plasma TV.

The woman was sitting inside the house with her two children when they suddenly heard gun shots outside shortly before the door was kicked open.

“Three unknown men, one of them armed, ordered the victims to put up their hands. The husband came from the bedroom to investigate the commotion but he was shot in his left arm. The thugs tied the victims’ hands and feet with brown tape, and rummaged their home,” Lefakane said.

Lefakane said police have opened a case of robbery, and two attempted murder cases are being investigated. The suspects remain at large.

The community of Zuurbekom is urged to report any suspicious movement and is advised to put security measures in place that could ward off home invaders.

“These include putting lights in their yards as the area is very dark, and try to be vigilant before checking on their dogs,” Lefakane added.