Three men are wanted by the Bohlokong police in Bethlehem to assist in a business robbery investigation.

Police believe Molefi Mashinini, Conny Motaung, and Tshepiso wa Bohlokong can assist and provide information to the investigators.

A 35-year-old security guard was on duty at a packaging company in the industrial area on Thursday (25/4) when eleven unknown men allegedly pointed firearms at him and forced him to undress.

‘Two safes were forcefully opened using explosives’

“He was dragged to a nearby field close to a railway line and forced to undress his work uniform and his hands were tied with shoelaces,” said Free State police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli. “The suspects went into the building and broke the burglar and alarm system.”

Three offices were broken into, two safes were forcefully opened using explosives, and an undisclosed amount of cash was stolen when the suspects fled the scene. “A case of business robbery was opened at the Bohlokong police station. No arrests have been made yet and investigations continue,” said Kareli.

South African security barrier manufacturer Trellidor reports there are numerous ways to increase business premises’ security.

‘Make sure the perimeter of the business is well-lit’

• Limitation of entry points: Trespassers get discouraged from entering and leaving by a single entry since it makes it more likely that they will be discovered.

• Use visitor logs: Either paper logbooks or more modern technology can be used to keep security logs.

• Regular door and gate maintenance: Make sure to regularly inspect the entrance doors for wear or broken hardware.

• Consider gated parking: Another method to enhance building security is to restrict access to the parking lot and the structure.

• Be alert during opening and closing times: Always work in pairs to prevent being surprised or being overpowered by criminals.

• Make sure the perimeter of the business is well-lit: Especially around doors, windows, skylights, or other entry points.

• Be sure your safe is fireproof and securely anchored: This prevents the safe from being forcefully opened with explosives.

• Install an alarm system: Alarm systems and security cameras should be installed to increase the chances of success in managing a robbery incident when it occurs.

Anyone with information is requested to call Detective Colonel Ben Bolsiek at 082 466 8530.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh