Free State police, with the help of local farmers and private security, arrested six suspects following a house robbery at a farm near Warden.
Police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli said the incident began when five suspects confronted the victim, opened his vehicle door, and forcefully took his licensed .22 pistol. One of the attackers allegedly hit the victim on the head with the back of the firearm, causing him to fall. The group then fled in the victim’s Toyota Hilux, heading towards the N3 freeway.
When the victim reached his farmhouse, he found his 76-year-old wife unharmed but shaken. She told police that the men had entered through the kitchen, threatened her with a firearm, and demanded access to the safe. Fearing for her life, she complied.
Kareli confirmed that the suspects stole three licensed firearms and ammunition. A joint operation was launched with neighbouring farmers and private security, leading to the swift arrest of the suspects. “The stolen white Toyota Hilux was traced and intercepted on the N3 Freeway. Six suspects, aged between 28 and 42, were arrested. The stolen firearms were recovered, and a Suzuki vehicle used in the crime was also seized,” he said.
The suspects face charges of house robbery and are expected to appear in the Warden Magistrate’s Court soon.
Compiled by Clement Matroos
