GQEBERHA – A 37-year-old suspect has been arrested in connection with a violent house robbery that left an elderly couple seriously injured in Sardinia Bay during the early hours of Friday morning, 5 September.
The swift arrest came after an intensive investigation by SAPS Walmer detectives.
According to police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge, at about 03:00, two suspects forced entry into a residence at the Wildlife Estate, Sardinia Bay, through a sliding door.
He said that the couple, a 68-year-old woman and a 73-year-old man, were assaulted with a panga and a wooden plank after being woken up by the intruders, who demanded valuables.
He said that when the alarm was triggered, the suspects fled with a cellphone.
“Both victims sustained severe head injuries and were rushed to hospital for urgent medical treatment,” said Beetge.
He said that Walmer detectives traced and arrested one suspect in Bethlehem Street, Walmer Township.
Beetge said that the stolen cellphone was also recovered in his possession.
“The arrested suspect faces charges of housebreaking and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH),” said Beetge.
“Police are continuing investigations to track down the second suspect.”
The Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, commended the swift action of the detectives and emphasised the importance of protecting the elderly.
“We need to protect our elderly and acts like these against vulnerable persons will be prioritised,” said Ncata.
