Makuya traditional leader Vhamusanda Vho Gumaninganne Makuya has urged residents to be vigilant and share any information that could lead to the arrest of six armed robbers who targeted the local traditional offices.
The robbery, which shocked the normally peaceful community, took place in the early hours of Friday, 12 September. Limpopo police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba confirmed that a massive manhunt has been launched.
"Reports suggest that a security officer was on duty when he was overpowered by a masked man armed with a firearm. While he was on the floor, five more suspects entered, tied him up, assaulted him and forced him to point out where the solar batteries were kept," Ledwaba said.
The robbers ransacked the offices, escaping with three air conditioners, two solar batteries, an inverter, a generator, six copper rolls and five cellphones. The stolen goods are valued at about R234,000.
Vhamusanda Makuya described the theft as a major setback for the community. "We are taken aback by this incident. Here we are talking about property that all residents should be guarding jealously against vandalism and theft. These robbers are heartless and should be removed from society," he said.
He called on residents to work with the police to bring the suspects to justice. "We urge the police to do their all to apprehend the suspects. We also make a clarion call to residents to be vigilant and ensure these suspects face the full might of the law," he said.
The police have intensified the search and appealed to anyone with relevant information to contact W/O Phathutshedzo Regina Gadabeni on 082-4145654, Crime Stop on 08600 10111, their nearest police station or via the MySAPS app.