An elderly couple aged 77 and 80 were assaulted and robbed during a violent farm attack in the Bothaville policing precinct in the Free State on Sunday evening, 14 June 2026.
According to police, the victims had just arrived at their farm at around 20:00 when they were confronted by three unknown men wearing gloves and covering their faces. The suspects allegedly assaulted the couple before stealing cash, a firearm, clothing, and other items from the property.
What Happened During the Farm Attack Near Bothaville
Police said the elderly couple arrived at their farm on Sunday night when three unidentified suspects approached them.
According to the preliminary investigation, one of the suspects allegedly struck the 80-year-old male victim on the head with a hammer while two other suspects restrained the 77-year-old female victim.
The couple was then allegedly forced into their home, where the suspects continued the attack. Police said the victims were assaulted with a steel pole and ordered to hand over money.
The suspects reportedly demanded cash, which the victims surrendered. Authorities further stated that one of the suspects was armed with a firearm during the robbery.
The attack lasted long enough for the suspects to move through parts of the house while maintaining control over the victims.
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Items Stolen From the Farmhouse During the Robbery
After obtaining money from the victims, the suspects allegedly instructed the couple to sit on a bed.
Police said the victims’ hands were tied and they were gagged with tape before the suspects searched through the bedroom and other areas of the house.
Investigators reported that the suspects stole a revolver, women’s clothing and shoes, as well as an undisclosed amount of cash.
The suspects then fled the property, leaving the victims restrained inside the home.
Farm attacks and rural robberies remain a serious concern for many farming communities across South Africa. Incidents involving elderly residents often raise additional concerns because of the vulnerability of victims living in isolated areas.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the total value of the stolen items.
How the Elderly Victims Escaped and Alerted Police
Despite being restrained, the victims eventually managed to free themselves several hours after the attack.
Police said the couple succeeded in untying themselves at approximately 23:30 before reporting the incident.
Emergency assistance was subsequently arranged, and authorities opened a criminal case.
Fortunately, police reported that both victims sustained only minor injuries during the ordeal.
The incident has nevertheless caused concern within the local community due to the age of the victims and the nature of the attack.
Investigators are currently gathering evidence and following up on potential leads to help identify those responsible.
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Police Search for Suspects Following Bothaville Farm Robbery
The South African Police Service has registered a case of house robbery and launched an investigation into the incident.
At this stage, no arrests have been announced, and the suspects remain at large.
Police are appealing to members of the public who may have information about the attack, the suspects, or any suspicious activity in the area to come forward.
Anyone who can assist with the investigation is encouraged to contact Captain Maleme of the Bothaville Detectives on 082 466 7923.
Information can also be provided anonymously through the Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111.
Authorities have indicated that efforts to trace and arrest the suspects are continuing.
Police have urged residents to report any information that may help investigators as the search for the three suspects remains underway.
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