A collaborative effort between members of the Welkom Anti-Gang Unit, Thabong CSC, and Welkom Flying Squad led to the arrest of three male suspects aged 25, 33 and 37 after a woman was shot during a house robbery in Thabong.
It is alleged that on Sunday, 16 March 2025, at about 03:45, a 42-year-old woman was at her place of residence when she heard a sound at the door. She then pushed the fridge in an attempt to close the door.
However, a gunshot went off from outside before striking her on the right leg. She then ran to hide her children in the bedroom. Upon returning to the kitchen, she found three unknown males wearing face masks armed with firearms and a crowbar. One of the suspects hit her on the arm with a firearm before demanding money from her. The suspects took the victims’ property, which included a TV, speaker, pairs of shoes, cellphones, a bank card, and six cases of alcohol before fleeing the scene on foot. The victim was taken to a local hospital for medical treatment.
The description and the whereabouts of the suspects was later given to members on duty. The information was operationlised and led members to a shebeen in 2010 Section, Thabong. The three suspects were identified.
A 33-year-old suspect was found in possession of suspected stolen property, housebreaking implements, and toy guns. A 25-year-old suspect was found in possession of suspected stolen property, and a 37-year-old suspect found in possession of suspected stolen property and possession of unlicensed firearm. The two suspects aged 25 and 37 were found to be in contravention of the immigration act.
The three suspects aged 25,33, and 37 were subsequently arrested. They are expected to appear in the Welkom Magistrate’s Court soon.
