THUGS target a mourning family in Soweto.
A grieving family in Moletsane, Soweto, was dealt a double blow, from losing a loved one to being robbed of money.
Double trauma for family
The family was left traumatised and financially devastated after four armed robbers allegedly robbed them while mourning the death of a loved one.
The incident occurred around 7pm on Friday, 11 July, when the suspects allegedly stormed the family home, holding mourners, mostly women, hostage at gunpoint.
The robbers are said to have demanded cellphones, bank cards, and forced several family members to transfer large sums of cash through mobile banking apps, resulting in losses allegedly exceeding R150 000.
According to the family, a luxury Range Rover Evoque was also stolen during the attack.
Burial preparations turn chaotic
It has been reported that two of the suspects used the vehicle to withdraw cash at Jabulani Mall, Soweto, and the remaining two reportedly stayed behind, looted funeral groceries, assaulted family members, and also helped themselves to food from the kitchen.
They claimed the car's tracker was later found dumped in Ekurhuleni.
When Daily Sun visited the home on Tuesday, 15 July, the family was hesitant to discuss the ordeal.
Sources close to the family revealed that members had gathered on the day to begin with burial preparations after the death of a relative in the early hours of the same morning.
"It was around 7pm, and most of the men had stepped out. The criminals burst into the house while only women were present. They were made to lie on the floor while their phones were taken and forced to transfer money," said a source.
They claimed that after robbing the family and fleeing in the stolen vehicle, the suspects proceeded to rob another household nearby, also preparing for a funeral.
Police investigation underway
Police spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed that a case of house robbery has been opened.
The funeral service for the deceased family member is expected to take place this weekend.
