A joyous birthday celebration turned sour for Sfisosethu France Masilela when he fell victim to an armed robbery downtown.

According to the police report, on Saturday, November 16, Masilela’s evening began with friends surprising him with a lodge booking to make up for his missed birthday celebration.

Later, he kindly offered to escort a friend and his girlfriend to the nearest mall to transfer money and purchase party snacks.
After dropping off the girlfriend at her home, Masilela said his vehicle was targeted by two men with firearms on Allenby Street, Extension 10.

“The men ordered me and my friend out of the vehicle,” he said.

Miraculously, Masilela and his friend escaped unharmed, but the alleged armed men fled in Masilela’s silver-grey Toyota Corolla 16V (JPW 775 MP).

All the snacks for the next day’s birthday celebrations and some cloted were still in the car.

Masilela expressed his devastation, “My heart is so painful; my celebration day turned into a nightmare. My car held sentimental value, as it was essential for transporting my mother to hospital appointments.”

Captain Eddie Hall, spokesperson for Witbank SAPS said, “Avoid being alone in a vehicle when travelling at night. Do not stop around hijacking spots or in any secluded area. Always be alert when driving. If you suspect you are being followed by a suspicious vehicle, drive to the nearest police station or call the SAPS Emergency Number, 10111. Increase caution at intersections; always keep a lookout for people loitering around your car or for any sudden activity around your car.”
This is an ongoing case, as police are still investigating.

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