Armed robber targets elderly

Several cases in which elderly people have been attacked and robbed in their homes in Oakdale could be the work of one man, say police.

In the latest incident, an elderly couple was attacked and robbed on Tuesday morning October 8.

“At about 9am, the suspect entered the house through the back door, which was left open overnight. The elderly couple was attacked in the house while the suspect also demanded jewellery and cash,” said Captain Jonathan Blankenberg.

“While attempting to fight the suspect, the husband was forced from the backyard into the kitchen where he was struck with a hammer on the head before being stabbed with a sharp object on the side.The suspect then fled with the suspect’s wallet.”

The elderly man was taken to Karl Bremmer Hospital, but it is understood that he has since been discharged and is recovering at home.

Police are investigating a case of house robbery.

There has been a string of similar cases over the past month, according to Captain Blankenberg. He has urged the elderly to remain vigilant.

The perpetrator is still at large, and police have asked for anyone with information to come forward.

“This is not the first incident where an elderly person was attacked in their house by what is described to be a tall and dark in complexion male person. Previous incidents indicated the suspect gained entry through the back windows or back doors of these premises.

Residents need to be vigilant and report any suspicious persons in the area to the police, while family members of the elderly need to regularly check up on them to ensure their safety and also alert them to keep their windows closed and doors locked.”

Last month, the Northern News reported that property crimes were on the rise in Bellville and Durbanville areas after the latest national crime statistics showed residential burglaries had risen from 205 cases to 215 over the last year.

The Oakdale Neighbourhood Watch declined to comment.