A home robbery has left a Newcastle domestic worker in a state of shock, as an armed intruder forcibly entered her employer’s residence on Voortrekker Street in the CBD.
The incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon, 2 September 2023, with Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team member Imran Ghafoor providing insights into the harrowing incident.
“The suspect gained access to the house through a window and was armed with a large knife. At the time, the domestic worker was in the house and the suspect threatened her, and demanded cash and valuables,” he explained.
Although the terrified woman escaped physical harm, the perpetrator succeeded in intimidating her. Whereafter, he forced her to be silent while the robbery unfolded. According to the information, the assailant managed to flee the scene with stolen items estimated to be worth R85 000.
Following the suspect’s departure from the premises, an urgent call for assistance was issued, prompting a response from all relevant authorities. Ghafoor commented on the ensuing investigation, stating, “Investigations were conducted and information was gathered.”
The intelligence gathered by law enforcement guided an operational team comprised of the Newcastle K9 unit, Newcastle SAPS, Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team, and a local security company to track the suspect to a safe house located in Lennoxton.
“We managed to track him down in 48 hours and he didn’t have a chance to escape, as we surrounded the safe house,” told Ghafoor.
Thankfully and bringing an end to this criminal’s quest, the operation culminated in the arrest of the suspect and the recovery of the stolen valuables. The individual in question now faces charges of possessing stolen property and committing house robbery.
As legal proceedings against the accused get underway, we invite readers to share their thoughts on this incident in the comments section below.
Furthermore, it is extremely important to prioritise safety and security in your home. Domestic workers should be educated on security measures to ensure their and your home’s safety throughout the day.
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