JEFFREYS BAY - SUSPECTS ROB ELDERLY COUPLE IN RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Two suspects overpowered an elderly couple in their 70's after gaining access into a retirement village in Wonderboom Crescent in Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape provincial police said on Monday.

The suspects, who gained access to the retirement village at around 2am on Monday, allegedly climbed through an open window and overpowered the elderly couple while they were sleeping.

Police spokesperson, Captain Gerda Swart, said: “The two suspects threatened the elderly couple with knives and then searched the house and took off on foot with jewellery, an undisclosed amount of cash, cellphones and a television set.”

It was, however, not clear how the suspects gained access to the retirement village as the incident is still under investigation.

“The victims managed to alert the neighbours who alerted the police, who responded immediately,” Swart said. “Detectives are following up on various leads and Jeffreys Bay SAPS requests second-hand dealers and businesses to be aware of any suspicious person(s) trying to sell items such as jewellery, cellphones or electronic equipment and to report it immediately to the local police station.”

Local businesses were asked to not purchase any stolen goods as it was a crime.

Humansdorp Cluster Commander, Brigadier John Lebok, said: “Crimes committed against the elderly is a priority for the South African Police Service and they will do everything in their power to apprehend the suspects.”

SAPS also requested that windows be fitted with durable burglar bars as it would prevent suspects from entering their houses.

“We are also following up on all possible leads and we will consult with the security companies in our area, to be more visible and increase their patrols at the complex,” Lebok added.

Anyone that might be able to assist with information was asked to contact investigation officer, Detective Warrant Officer Eunice Potgieter at 042 200 6600, Jeffreys Bay SAPS at 042 2006800 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111. End

VIA - algoafm