Kimberley - A manhunt has been launched for two suspects who brutally attacked an elderly couple on their farm near Koffiefontein on Thursday.
Free State police spokesperson, Peter Kareli, said that the couple, who are in their sixties, were assaulted after the suspects gained entry to their home.
“The incident occurred between 12.30 and 1pm today (on Thursday). The couple were inside the house when the suspects entered and assaulted them. The suspects demanded the keys to the safe and took a .303 rifle and hunting rifle from the safe. They also took an undisclosed amount of money as well as the cellphones of the victims. The suspects then tied up the couple and fled in the victims’ vehicle,” said Kareli.
He added that the vehicle was later recovered after the couple reported the matter to the police.
“The wife managed to untie herself and drive herself and her husband to the police station."
“Police came across the vehicle, a white Toyota Corolla 2011, which was found overturned on the way to Petrusville, after the victims reported the incident.”
Kareli added that there was no one inside the overturned vehicle and that it was not clear whether the suspects fled on foot or got into another vehicle.
He said that the couple, who were badly bruised and shaken, were referred for medical treatment.
“The victims were traumatised and taken for medical treatment. The husband had blood running from his ears and had bruises all over his body. It appeared as if he had been kicked during the incident. None of the victims were shot or stabbed and they were not admitted to hospital.”
Kareli said police were searching for the culprits.
“No arrests have been affected so far and police investigations continue.”