WATCH: Fake party guests rob family at gunpoint, steal phones and alcohol
ASSAULTED
Relatives were ready to host a surprise party in Philippi in Cape Town when they were accosted.
Image: Screenshot
POLICE are searching for criminals who posed as birthday party guests before robbing a family at gunpoint. A viral video shows the terrifying moment when the celebration turned into a nightmare, with 12 phones, cash and alcohol stolen.
Western Cape police are searching for a group of criminals who pretended to be guests at a surprise birthday party in Philippi.
Provincial police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala said the three suspects were "greeted warmly and even hugged the victims."
She said further reports indicated that after their warm welcome, the suspects went out and came back with a firearm, demanding cellphones and money.
"The three suspects made off with 12 cellphones, R130 cash, and alcohol."
She said a case of house robbery was being investigated with no arrests by Monday morning.
In the viral video, a woman is seen setting up for the party.
It is unclear whether a gunshot went off or a balloon popped, which has everyone frightened.
One of the suspects was caught on camera slapping one of the guests, while the other robbed the guests of their personal items.
In a post on X (formerly known as Twitter), a user, @KingMntungwa posted a video of the incident.
He confirmed his family was hosting a surprise party for his uncle in Philippi.
“Three men barged in, shot inside the house, took 12 phones, and there was a toddler in the house as well,” his post wrote.
He urged social media users to be vigilant, even when at home, and ensure all gates are secured.
“All three (suspects) attacked my father. They smacked his sister, and they threatened to kill my mother. They also held everyone at gunpoint and ordered them to remove their passwords and tracking devices,” the post read further."