Central SA
Bloemfontein police seek seven suspects in Wilgehof robbery, attempted murder─── ZENANDE MPAME 10:35 Wed, 17 Sep 2025
Bloemfontein police are searching for seven suspects, three females and four males, after they allegedly robbed a house in Wilgehof.
Moses Erasmus (58), a SANDF supply division employee, was taken to the 3 Military Hospital after he was found with a wound on the back of his head. He was attended to by paramedics and transported to a nearby hospital in stable condition.
This is a second attack on a man in the city, three days after the murder of a retired regimental sergeant major (RSM) from 3 Parachute Battalion in Tempe, who was found with a stab wound to the chest in his home. It is alleged that two women initially approached the victim’s home asking for water, which he provided, and then they left.
The same two women returned a short time later, this time with an additional woman and four men. They allegedly forced their way into the house, attacked the victim with a panga, and tied his hands with an electrical cord.
“This group proceeded to ransack the house, stealing some household items and clothing before fleeing the scene,” said Free State police spokesperson Mahlomla Kareli. Police found the victim with a wound to the back of his head.
“The victim was attended to by paramedics and transported to a nearby hospital in a stable condition. No arrests have been made yet, and Parkroad police are appealing to the public for assistance.”
‘Your safety comes first at all times’
Anyone with information is urged to contact Det. Capt. Moseme on 082 5262713 or the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
Residents have been urged to stay alert and not open their gates without being certain of the person outside. If you did not order a delivery, do not allow anyone claiming to have a package inside your yard.
Strangers belong on the other side of your security gate or fence. Your safety comes first at all times, said a message sent by ward councillors.
Motive still unknown
Meanwhile, the funeral service of Sgt. Maj. Albertus Opperman will take place on Wednesday, 24 September at the Dutch Reformed Church in Pellissier. His body was found on Friday (12/9) when his domestic worker arrived at the house and found two unknown men inside.
She ran to the neighbours, and the police were called. Opperman was declared dead at the scene.
“There is no connection between the two attacks, and no arrests have been made yet in connection with the murder of Opperman, and investigations are continuing,” said Kareli. The motive for the murder is still unknown.
