Vhembe police urge caution after stokvel robbery
Vhembe police warn stokvel groups to avoid cash transactions after R140 000 robbery in Mashau Village.
LIMPOPO – Police are urging community members and stokvel groups to avoid handling large amounts of cash following a robbery where criminals stole more than R140 000 in savings from a stokvel group in Mashau and Tsinda villages.
The incident occurred on Saturday when stokvel members gathered at a Mashau village residence to divide their savings.
According to stokvel member Thivhilaeli Ravele, the group was ambushed by two armed men who arrived 20 minutes after two members had already collected their shares and left. The suspects, armed and threatening, ordered the group to lie down, took all the cash, and locked them in a shack before fleeing.
Ravele expressed shock and explained that the group had no bank account, relying on five elected treasurers to hold the money.
Vhembe SAPS Spokesperson Warrant Officer Vuledzani Dathi advised the community and stokvel members to avoid cash handling, especially during this season when these crimes tend to increase. He recommended using safer methods, including electronic fund transfers or banking apps, which allow members to transfer money securely from home.
“Handling large amounts of cash makes you a target. Grocery stokvels should also avoid withdrawing cash before shopping and instead use card payments,” Dathi said.
He advised that even among members, security measures should be taken, treating all situations cautiously.
Anyone with information about the robbery is encouraged to contact the nearest police station at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPSApp.
