‘Your life is not insured, your car is’ – police warn after Olifants River attack
Police warn the public against visiting Olifants River following a notable surge in armed robberies at the river.
A robbery incident recently occurred at the Olifants River, leaving a couple traumatised and robbed of their vehicle and cash.
According to the police, a man said that on February 26, he had been performing rituals with his wife at the river when two armed men attacked them before they could depart.
The gunmen reportedly instructed the couple to lie down, then tied their hands with cable ties. Thereafter, they pushed the couple into their own vehicle and drove with them for a short time before dropping them and demanding their cellphones.
After demanding access to the husband’s banking apps, one of the robbers transferred some money from his accounts. The other one drove off with their vehicle and returned later on with just the keys, telling them that their car is at Allenby Street.
The vehicle was later recovered, and an investigation into the incident is underway.
The police urge the public to remain vigilant, as incidents involving the river are on the rise.
@witbanknews Police from Witbank Station are warning the public about a series of robberies targeting people performing rituals at Olifants River, Seekoeiwater. With 23 cases reported last year and four already this year, authorities are urging individuals to stay alert and avoid visiting the area. #witbanknews #emalahleni #news #fyp ♬ original sound – witbanknews
“Always be vigilant and check your surroundings, and if you notice something suspicious, go back to your house,” said Warrant Officer David Ratau from Witbank SAPS. “If you find yourself cornered, just give them the car because your life is not ensured, but the car is.”
This has been the fourth incident at the same spot this year.
Police warn the community of eMalahleni to avoid going to the Olifants River following 8 armed robbery cases reported this year
Read more here:https://t.co/eQu5ehBlmq#WitbankNews #emalahleni #Olifantsriver pic.twitter.com/LvBine3njq— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) December 29, 2025
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