BLOEMFONTEIN – The Bloemfontein police have launched a full-scale search for two men in connection with a brazen robbery of two female students and attempted rape in broad daylight on Monday.

The police reported that the incident involving the two victims, both aged 21, occurred in Memorial Road in Uitsig, a suburb in Bloemfontein.

Captain Loraine Earle, provincial police spokesperson, said a case of attempted sexual offence and robbery with a weapon was registered at Park Road police station for further investigation, and no arrests have been made. She said the victims were on foot when they were attacked and robbed of their personal belongings.

“The two victims were walking in the Uitsig area when they were robbed of their personal belongings. One victim was allegedly forced into nearby bushes but she fought off the suspect before seeking for help. A passer-by stopped to assist her,” said Earle.

Police are appealing to the public to assist with information regarding the wanted suspects.

The latest incident adds to sporadic broad-daylight robberies involving women in Bloemfontein. Last month two women, both 21 years old were robbed of their cell phones by two men travelling in a Toyota Corolla in Bayswater. One of the victims was hospitalised with severe injuries after one of the suspects hit her with a vehicle upon fleeing the crime scene following the robbery. The incident has been captured on CCTV camera footage.

Earle said the women reported that one suspect tricked them with a fake job promise upon meeting them on their way home.

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation regarding the robbery of the two students in Uitsig, is urged to contact the investigating officer, Constable Tshediso Tsoela, on 082 455 6081. Information can also be provided through the MySAPS app or the Crime Stop line on 08600 10111.

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