German tourists robbed on beach

2009-01-09 22:40

Pretoria - Two German tourists were attacked and robbed on a beach in Port Alfred, Eastern Cape police said on Friday.

Captain Mali Govender said the incident happened on Wednesday when the tourists - a man and women both aged 73 - were walking between the Rufanes river and Port Alfred east beach around 10:30am.

"They were approached from the front by three unknown males who walked past them and then attacked them from behind," said Govender.

One of the attackers was armed with a knife and another man had a plank which he used to hit the woman on the upper part of her body.

She sustained injuries to her head and face. The man was not hurt.

The men then left in the direction of the sand dunes taking two digital cameras, jewellery, bank cards, sunglasses and a cellphone. The stolen goods amounted to about R18 000.

"The victim received medical treatment and is still traumatised," said Govender.

No arrests had been made as the victims were unable to provide a description of the male attackers.

Govender said housebreakings had also become a concern for those living in the golf club area towards the beach.

On Thursday, two 16-year-old male youths were arrested inside a house in the area.

They had been spotted by security officers from a local security company.

On Friday morning, police also responded to a house alarm and another four youths were arrested.

The youths - two 18-year-olds, and a 16 and 17-year-old were found hiding in a bush close to house.

They were in possession of several items including cellphones and alcohol. The items were handed back to the owners of the house.

"The public are urged to ensure that doors and windows are locked and valuables are not left lying around," said Govender.

She said the arrested youths were expected to appear in the Port Alfred Magistrate's Court soon.

- SAPA