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A Mount Pleasant resident, who was recently the victim of a home invasion, has voiced his deep frustration with the justice system following the release of the suspects involved in the incident.
Two suspects were arrested, and one suspect was shot dead after they fled the scene and were chased by SAPS members, the K9 unit, Atlas Security, and Neighborhood Watch groups on April 17.
SAPS spokesperson, Captain Andre Beetge, confirmed that on Monday, April 22, "the suspects and docket went to court, but the case was not enrolled on the court roll, and the suspects were released by the court."
Capt. Beetge declined to elaborate on the reasons for their release or any alleged prior convictions, stating that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) would have to state the reasons as to why the suspects were released by the court.
NPA spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, said the matter was not enrolled because the 48 hours had lapsed when the accused were brought to court.
Capt. Beetge confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing.
During the home invasion the suspects posed as buyers responding to a social media advert for a second-hand solar power battery and overpowered the homeowner.
Speaking to PE Express, the homeowner, who wishes to remain anonymous, expressed his frustration at the release of the suspects following the ordeal.
“I was really upset about this because I went through quite a traumatic experience,” he said.
As previously reported by PE Express, the homeowner was gunpointed and ordered into the house after opening the gate for the “buyers.” Capt. Beetge said in his report on the incident that the suspects took the homeowner into one of the bedrooms, tied him up with his shoelaces, and ransacked the house. One of the suspects then pressed the remote on the keychain, which resulted in the activation of the panic alarm. The suspects then panicked and fled from the house. They attempted to steal valuables including cellphones, a TV, and a firearm.
Beetge said,
“The third suspect attempted to evade arrest by hiding in the yard of a nearby house in Athlone Street but was found and arrested by SAPS K9 unit members. In his possession, two firearms were found. One of the firearms was taken during the house robbery, and the other firearm’s serial number was removed,” capt. Beetge said.
“Cases of house robbery, pointing of firearm, and an inquest were opened for investigation. More charges could be added at a later stage,” said Capt. Beetge.
