Former minister and current Nelson Mandela University chancellor, Naledi Pandor, was left shaken after three armed men stormed into her Villieria home during a late-night house robbery on Friday and pointed a firearm at her.
According to information contained in a police report, which Africa Daily has seen, the terrifying incident unfolded at about 21h30 at her residence in Waterson Street, Kellner Park, Villieria, when the suspects, all wearing balaclavas, allegedly forced their way into the property through the front door.
Police said the suspects moved swiftly through the house before confronting Pandor in her bedroom.
“It is alleged that on Friday, 22 May 2026 at about 21h30, three unknown suspects wearing balaclavas gained entry to the house through the front door,” the statement reads.
The intruders reportedly split roles as they carried out the robbery. One suspect allegedly pointed a firearm at Pandor and instructed her to remain silent, while another confronted her husband in the bathroom. A third suspect moved through the house, searching rooms and ransacking the property for valuables.
“The suspects proceeded directly to the bedroom where they found Dr Naledi Pandor. One suspect pointed a firearm at her and ordered her to remain silent,” police said.
Among the items stolen were two televisions, a laptop, two iPhones and a Toyota Cross vehicle belonging to the family.
“The suspects drove off the scene with the victim’s vehicle. The vehicle was later recovered in Mamelodi East,” the statement further reads.
Fortunately, neither Pandor nor her husband sustained injuries during the ordeal.
Police confirmed that members from Villieria SAPS, Pretoria Central LCRC, as well as National and Provincial Crime Scene Management teams attended the scene. Investigations into the robbery are continuing.
This is a second robbery at Pandor’s home in less than six months.
Pandor ‘s house was broken into while she was sleeping in November last year.
The intruders stole only her iPhone, MacBook and a set of sockets, while leaving behind items such as a television set and music equipment. This has raised suspicions that the former minister may have been deliberately targeted by individuals seeking access to her private or sensitive information.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the police have launched a manhunt against the suspects.
