Armed robbers crash surprise birthday party in Philippi
A surprise party turned into a house robbery in Philippi.
Image: Screengrab
Philippi detectives are investigating a house robbery after three men posing as guests at a surprise birthday party in Browns Farm, allegedly robbed partgoers of their cellphones, cash and alcohol- an incident that has since sparked outrage after a video of the moments leading up to the attack went viral on social media.
The robbery occurred on Saturday, 31 January 2026, at a home in Sixwayikati Street. According to police, a surprise birthday celebration was being prepared when three unknown men arrived at the house pretending to be invited guests. The now-viral video shows women inside the home setting up decorations for the party, unaware of what was about to unfold.
According to information, the suspects allegedly helped unload items from a vehicle, greeting residents warmly and pretending to be part of the celebration.
They reportedly went inside the house, observed the setup and interacted with those present before leaving again. Shortly afterwards, they returned this time armed with a firearm and the robbery began.
Reports also reveal the confusion during the initial moments of the attack.
Partygoers reportedly first believed the gunshot in the ceiling was a balloon bursting. When threats followed, some thought the men were joking or joining in the celebration. It was only when the suspects allegedly began manhandling occupants that those present realised the threat was real.
Police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala said according to reports, a surprise birthday party was hosted at the mentioned address. Three unknown men came in pretending to be guests, they greeted warmly and even hugged the victims. They went out and came back with a firearm, demanding cell phones, and money. The three suspects made off with 12 cellphones, R130 cash, and alcohol.
"No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing."
A Facebook post further explained that the attack turned violent. The suspects are accused of assaulting the father in the house, smacking his sister and threatening to kill the mother. Guests were allegedly forced at gunpoint to hand over cellphone passwords and disable tracking devices.
The suspects are believed to have escaped in a maroon Renault Sandero.
The incident has once again placed the spotlight on violent crime in Philippi.
In 2025, the Weekend Argus reported that the area was at breaking point, with violent crime becoming a daily reality for residents, ranging from hijackings and smash-and-grabs to mass murders.
Brown’s Farm remains one of Philippi’s most volatile pockets, frequently flagged as a danger zone for residents, e-hailing drivers and online sellers. High-profile incidents in 2025, including attacks on Members of Parliament and multiple deadly shootings in Philippi East, have reinforced the suburb’s reputation as one of Cape Town’s most dangerous areas.