Spokesperson Brigadier Motantsi Makhele said the anti-gang unit cornered the men near Welkom.

He said the anti-gang unit members received information while off duty about a farm attack that happened in the Bultfontein area where two unknown men attacked the elderly family but were disturbed by a family member who foiled their efforts.

"Upon receiving information, the unit commander kept in contact with one person who was following the suspect’s vehicle, a maroon Golf with FS registration numbers. The members acted swiftly and the vehicle was successfully blocked on the Wesselsbron Road. Two suspects aged 44 and 45 years old were arrested. Further investigations led members to a spot near the bridge in Odendaalsrus where the group was to meet with the others to distribute the loot," he said.

"Three unknown males were surprised by the unit and fled the scene leaving behind stolen goods - a plasma screen and cell phones taken at the farm attack. A maroon VW Golf was also confiscated as it was used in the commission of the crime."

Investigations continue and the men would appear in the Bultfontein Magistrate's Court soon, he said.

African News Agency (ANA)