Brave Heroes Risk All to Save Women from Motor Heist in South Africa

Two men have been hailed as heroes on social media for risking their lives to save two women from an alleged motor heist in South Africa.

According to Frans Haasbroek, writing in Afrikaans, the two gentlemen (one of whom, Steve, owns the BMW in the picture) responded immediately to protect the women from the heist, and then had to defend themselves against the assailants who were using pangas and sticks.

Frans also claims that Steve’s car was battered from behind by the assailants to punish him for assisting white people. (“Hulle het sy BMW van agter gestamp en hom ook aangeval omdat hulle blankes bystaan.”)

The incident occurred yesterday, Freedom Day (27 April), just after 16h30 on the N4.

According to Frans, who uploaded the photos seen above, Steve doesn’t have insurance to cover the damage to his car… so he said any help would be greatly appreciated!

Frans said these guys put their lives on the line for these women, and if anybody could help to please inbox him as he had Steve’s details.

“There are still South Africans who care for each other,” said Frans.

UPDATE: We Fix Cars has already offered to help! We Fix Cars’ director Yotti told SAPeople: “People like that I take my hat off to. I have a wife and child and I am glad to see people like this stand as men and put themselves in danger to help a fellow human. So that’s why I wanted to get involved.” Yotti will update with pictures.

Frans also thanked a man and women who turned around in their Landcruiser to help.

Frans said the police were just a little too late on the scene, but they have a photo of the taxi.

Frans asked that everyone share the message, and urged people in Pretoria East to be attentive.

Hennie Muller shared an English translation of the post on Positive Relationships in SA Facebook page and said: “SA need to stand together in times of crisis and it is happening more and more.”

South Africans on social media have praised the brave men and called on citizens to donate to help Steve’s car get fixed.

Jabu M Nyathi said: “Wow that’s one key tenet of our African belief Ubuntu. Lay down your life for others especially the vulnerable. Thank you guys you’re our today heroes.”

Gininda Mlungisi wrote: “When will we realise that True Love is the Only Answer. True Love doesn’t look at Age, Gender, Background, Colour. When will we realise??”

Corinne Lewis said: “Wow! That’s so brave. People please let’s share post asking for a panel beater to fix the BMW. We can help him get it fixed.”

Daléne Du Preez summed up: “This is what we all want to have in our beautiful country. To live together in peace and harmony. Love each other unconditionally and caring and reaching out to others where it is most needed! We salute you, true heroes and ambassadors of being truly Proudly SA. Pray that you will be blessed abundantly!!”