Narrow escape for Verulam family caught in home invasion and hijacking

A Brindhaven, Verulam family had a narrow escape on Thursday morning when they faced a barrage of gunfire during a brazen hijacking and home invasion.

At about 8.30am, four armed suspects, driving a white VW Polo with an unknown registration, approached the homeowner on Ginger Grove road. The daring attack unfolded when the homeowner's driveway gate and garage door were left open due to load shedding.

The home-owner who did not want to be named, said the men, after gaining access to the property demanded the keys to his white VW Polo.

“I don’t know what I was thinking, but I just ran out of the house forgetting that my wife and seven-month-old daughter were in the house,” said the man.

“I secured myself behind a security gate. I’m just thankful that my wife and daughter were unharmed. When the men saw me running, they opened fire. It was scary and I am very traumatised. It was rapid fire with five shots ringing out before they escaped in my car. All our neighbours came out after this to see what was going on,” he added.

He said while they had no physical injuries, they were deeply shaken by the incident.

“I was shaking uncontrollably. My house has several bullet holes as it struck the walls. I’m still really scared,” said the man.

Reaction Unit South Africa spokesman Prem Balram said they were called to assist the family and found five spent 9mm cartridges at the scene, indicating the intensity of the gunfire exchanged.

“Authorities are now actively investigating the incident, and local residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity,” said Mr Balram.

Police spokesman Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the police were investigating a case of hijacking and robbery. No arrests have been made.