An old hostel at the Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum fell victim to brazen burglars, who allegedly pounced on the memorial institution, plundering priceless and irreplaceable historical artifacts.
Lwandle police spokesperson, Sergeant Mthokozisi Gama, confirmed the alleged burglary, stating it is believed that the unknown suspects, who remain at large, broke into the hostel via the roof.
Gama also said the break-in suspectedly occurred between Monday 18 and 25 March, as an exact date and time could not be established.
Yandisa Magagana, a collections manager at Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum, said the brazen suspects stole pots, plates, knives, forks, spoons, metal dishes and an old gramophone, which all hold historical relevance and priceless value as they all form part of the museum’s artifacts.
“They also stole a back-up battery system,” Magagana added.
He further explained that attaching a value to the historical items looted is an impossible task, as these items cannot be replaced and added to the exhibition at the Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum – which is located in Vulindlela Street and serves as a tribute to the historical realities of the migrant labour system, single-gender hostels, and the pervasive control exerted over black workers through identity documents during the apartheid era in South Africa, notably symbolised by the infamous pass book.
Magagana said the hostel is special because it is the only one left in Lwandle that has all of the original items on the inside and it looks exactly like it looked in yesteryear.
“We are urging the community to help us look after this property and to help us stop criminals from breaking-in to the museum in the future,” he urged.
Gama confirmed that police have opened a case of business robbery and the investigation is ongoing.
VAnyone with information is urged to call Lwandle police Detective Sergeant Zimasa Nungu on 021 845 2060.
