Police are investigating the murder of an elderly woman at her house in Hanover Park, after what is believed to be a failed house robbery.
According to police, the body of the 75-year-old woman was discovered by her son in their house in Surburg Walk on Wednesday morning.
Warrant officer Joseph Swaartbooi says Philippi police responded to the complaint at about 08:15, and upon arrival at the crime scene, they found the body of an adult woman inside the house.
According to reports, the woman’s son left the house for work on Tuesday evening and when he returned on Wednesday morning, he found his mother on the bed with her face on the pillow and the house in disarray.
Philippi police are investigating cases of murder and house robbery.
Following the incident, community organisation, Fight Against Crime SA (FACSA), has called for immediate intervention from SAPS, community safety stakeholders, and local leadership to urgently prioritise the safety of the elderly, who can no longer protect themselves.
According to this is the third pensioner or elderly person killed in Hanover Park in recent weeks.
“We cannot allow this deadly trend to escalate. These are not just statistics. They are mothers, grandmothers, and respected elders of our communities.”
” [FACSA] is deeply saddened and alarmed by the brutal murder of yet another elderly woman in Hanover Park this morning. Early indications point to a housebreaking, during which items were stolen.”
The organisation further urged residents to check in on elderly neighbours, assist them where needed, and remain alert to any suspicious activity.
The circumstances surrounding Wednesday’s incident are now the subject of an investigation by the South African Police Service.
Police have made a public appeal to anyone who can shed light on the circumstances surrounding this incident to please call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously.
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