CAPE TOWN – Residents of Table View have been left shaken following a violent house robbery in Thetford Street during the early hours of Thursday 26 February.
According to provincial police spokesperson Const Ndakhe Gwala, the victim was asleep at approximately 04:15 when three armed men wearing balaclavas entered the residence.
“The victim was sleeping at around 04:15 when he was woken up by three armed men with balaclavas. They tied the victim and his son, then proceeded to empty his two safes,” said Gwala.
Valuables and vehicle stolen
“They made off with his clothes, bank cards, firearm, cellphones, electric appliances and a Mercedes Benz C200 motor vehicle. At this stage, the suspects are still at large,” Gwala confirmed.
No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
Community shock and concern
The brazen nature of the attack has left residents unsettled, particularly because it occurred while the family was asleep.
Karen Williams, who lives a few streets away, said the incident had shaken her sense of security.
“Knowing that a father and his son were tied up in their own home at that hour is deeply disturbing. You always believe that if you lock your doors and set your alarm, you’re safe. This makes you realise how vulnerable we all are.”
Timing concern
An anonymous resident, who asked not to be named for safety reasons, said the timing of the robbery was especially concerning.
“Four o’clock in the morning is when you’re at your most vulnerable. It’s quiet, it’s dark, and you’re not alert. The fact that these men were bold enough to break in, tie them up and calmly empty two safes shows a level of planning that worries me.”
Andre Malgas, a local business owner, called for stronger visible policing.
“These criminals are becoming increasingly brazen. We need more patrols, more visibility and quicker follow-ups. Incidents like this create fear not just for one family, but for the entire neighbourhood.”
Another resident who requested anonymity said the emotional impact often lingers long after the stolen items are replaced.
“You can replace a car or a cellphone, but you can’t easily replace your peace of mind. The trauma of being woken up by armed men in your bedroom must be terrifying. As a community, we need to stand together and be more vigilant than ever.”
Police are following up on leads as they work to trace the suspects and recover the stolen property. Residents are urged to ensure their security systems are functioning properly and to immediately report any suspicious activity.
