An 18-year-old man was arrested and charged with house break-in after he allegedly broke into his mother’s home and stole money and groceries.

Tembisa police spokesperson Capt Ralidzhivha Manyadza said the incident happened on September 9, but the arrest was only made last Thursday in Essellen Park.

“It is alleged the suspect’s mother heard a noise outside her door and went out to investigate. She noticed that the padlock was broken and while she was still looking for clues, she saw her own son and a friend trying to break in.

“Once the suspects were inside the house, they strangled her and pushed her out of the way before making away with money, chicken and chicken heads she was preparing to sell,” said Manyadza.

After this incident, the mother went straight to the police and opened a case.

“We want to appeal to the community to help us track down the other suspect who ran away,” concluded Manyadza.