A farm attack took place in Onderstepoort, Haakdoornboom, Gauteng on Thursday 10 January 2019. Three attackers violently assaulted an elderly couple, Joost (77) and Aletta (78) Viljoen, who were overpowered in their bedroom at 02:00 in the morning. It is suspected that the criminals gained entry by opening the window and removing a burglar bar. Joost was attacked with sticks and suffered severe head injuries as well as deep cuts on his arms.
Fortunately, Aletta, who is bedridden after suffering a broken hip was left unharmed. Joost was taken to Steve Biko Academic hospital in a stable condition. A number of items were robbed during the attack including their white Hyundai Getz.
In a Facebook post by Irene Pelser, chairperson of Solidariteit Helpende Hand, Akasia branch, she asked for residents’ help. She said Aletta was bedridden and urgently needed adult diapers. “The house was completely plundered by the criminals,” she said in the post. She said urgent living arrangements were also needed for the elderly couple. While Joost is in hospital, Aletta is currently staying at a parsonage in the north of Pretoria.
If you are able to assist contact Irene Pelser on 0849418530 or Mariana Kriel on 0849525837.
The attack was reported on Twitter by Ian Cameron
Solidariteit Helpende Hand is needing assistance for the elderly couple.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
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FARM ATTACK:Onderstepoort/Haakdoornboom, Gauteng. 3 attackers violently assaulted elderly couple (77 & 78). Female victim is bedridden after breaking her hip. Multiple items stolen including car(Photo is part of male head wounds) pic.twitter.com/5HwPof0KC7— Ian Cameron (@IanCameron23) January 10, 2019