Vuyolwethu Sangotsha

Vuyolwethu Sangotsha

Suspects who broke into the house of an ANC Member of the Provincial Legislature (MPL) Mabandla Gogo in King William's Town at the weekend are still at large.

It is alleged that the culprits made off with Gogo's belongings including clothing, groceries, electrical appliances, shoes and toiletries.

Gogo was grateful that he was not on the premises when the suspects stormed into his house, allegedly breaking windows and burglar bars to gain access.

"Just imagine if I was there when they broke into my house, what would have happened? These criminals are ready to kill or be killed when they commit these crimes," said Gogo.

He said the fact that his house was close to a forest might have contributed to him being a target of thugs.

He said his house had been broken into three times so far. But Gogo was impressed with the reaction of the local police, saying that they reacted swiftly.

Gogo is a former MPL for the United Democratic Movement and United Independent Front. He recently crossed the floor to join the ruling party.

Police spokesman Captain Thozama Solani confirmed the incident and said the suspects were still at large. He said police investigations were continuing.

Sicelo Gqobana, ANC chief whip in the Eastern Cape legislature, could not be reached for comment yesterday.

Early this year Gqobana expressed concern over the safety of MPLs and other government officials.

At the time, Gqobana said his fears about the safety of MPLs were prompted by the fact that equipment such as laptops and cellphones had been disappearing from the legislature though security had been beefed up.