‘Shy’ bandits threaten murder if robbery reported in media

Three armed bandits, who apparently shun notoriety, threatened the East Canje family that they robbed that if a report of the robbery appeared in the media, they would kill a family member.

The terrified victims, who do not want their names in the media, are now considering moving from the area.

The 47-year-old housewife of Lot 983 East Canefield, was at home with five children who were in the living room watching television, while she was in a bedroom when three bandits entered the building through a southern door which was left open and held the children at gunpoint. The bandits took 4 cell phones – a total value of $110,000 – from the children.

While one of the masked robbers remained with the children, the other two proceeded to bedroom, where they held the woman at gun point, demanding money and jewellery.

Scared for her life, she handed over $120,000, gold jewellery totalling $400,000 and a Sony video camera value $130,000.

The bandits then ordered the woman and her children to lie face down on the floor, at which time, one of the men cuffed and kicked the children about their bodies. They then escaped on foot.

The children were taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital, where they were treated and sent away.
Police are investigating.