A series of violent house robberies reported across eMalahleni in recent weeks has raised fresh concerns about residential areas’ safety, with incidents in Hoëveld Park, Tasbet Park and Klarinet leaving residents injured, traumatised and, in some cases, dead.

According to the police, the recent incidents have occurred across multiple areas, suggesting criminals are not focusing on a single area but are targeting homes throughout the city.

Hoëveld Park robbery claims two lives

One of the most devastating incidents occurred on September 5 when a house robbery in Hoëveld Park left Fransie and Dirkie Steenkamp dead.

According to information provided by the family, the suspects gained access to the property by tampering with the gate motor before entering the house through a back entrance.

An eMalahleni house robbery is under investigation after suspects allegedly forced victims to access banking applications, searched for a firearm, and fled with stolen property and a vehicle.
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Once inside, they reportedly stole valuables, including a television and firearms kept in a safe.

Once they became aware that they were not alone in the house, the suspects opened fire, fatally wounding one brother.

The second brother was shot multiple times in the stomach and legs and was rushed to hospital, where he underwent surgery.

Although he initially showed signs of recovery, he died five days later after suffering complications related to his injuries.

Days after the robbery, one of the firearms stolen from the property and vehicle keys taken during the attack were recovered in an open field in Mona Street, Model Park.

Cartridges were also found in the area.

Police are investigating cases of house robbery, murder and attempted murder.

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Tasbet Park occupants held captive

In another incident, a Tasbet Park family endured a terrifying ordeal when two suspects entered their home during the early hours of September 13.

Police reported that the occupants were confronted in their bedroom at about 02:30.

One victim was tied up with cable ties and forced to access a cellphone banking application while the suspects demanded money.

The homeowner was reportedly assaulted after the suspects discovered there was little money available in the account.

The suspects then searched the house for a firearm before stealing a television, cellphones, household items and a vehicle.

The victims managed to free themselves after the robbers fled and later sought assistance from neighbours.

No arrests had been made at the time of publication.

Klarinet resident shot during robbery

In Klarinet Ext. 7, a resident was hospitalised after being shot during a house robbery on August 31.

According to police, two masked suspects entered the home and held a woman at gunpoint while demanding money. The intruders reportedly stole cellphones and other belongings before attempting to flee.

As the suspects were leaving, they encountered the woman’s brother, robbed him of his cellphone and shot him in the leg before escaping.

The injured man was transported to hospital for treatment.

Police opened a case of house robbery and attempted murder.

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Residents on edge

The incidents come amid growing concerns from residents and community safety organisations about an apparent increase in residential robberies in parts of eMalahleni.

Community alerts have warned residents in areas such as Duvha Park and Tasbet Park to remain vigilant following reports of suspects targeting televisions, electronic equipment, cellphones, firearms and other household valuables.

There have also been reports that suspects are using various methods to gain entry to properties before carrying out robberies while residents are inside their homes.

Police urge vigilance

Witbank SAPS spokesperson Warrant Officer David Ratau said police have noted cases across various parts of eMalahleni and are not seeing house robberies concentrated in one particular area.

Ratau urged residents to ensure that burglar bars, doors, windows and gates remain locked at all times and encouraged communities to report suspicious activity immediately.

Ratau further advised residents not to place themselves in danger should they find themselves confronted by armed suspects.

“Residents must be vigilant and make sure their homes are secured. If you become a victim of a house robbery, cooperate to avoid endangering your life. Property can be replaced, but lives cannot.”

Police investigations into the various house robberies remain ongoing.

Anyone with information that can help solve the cases can contact Witbank SAPS on 079 891 5570, or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

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