A British model has told how machete-wielding robbers held her hostage and stole £80,000 of valuables from a luxury retreat in South Africa.
Sarah MacDonnell, creative director of yoga and leisurewear brand Manuka Life, was staying at the £870-a-night Maison Noir villa in the foothills of Table Mountain in the capital Cape Town when she was attacked.
Three men wearing balaclavas and holding huge knives cut through a fence on the perimeter of the exclusive holiday home, and lay in wait until Sarah’s boyfriend David opened a door to the garden.
The thugs then grabbed him from behind and forced their way in.
Sarah told the Mail on Sunday how she was threatened by the gang with a machete and a screwdriver.
They then tied her and David up, as well as three other employees who have asked not to be named.
“… the gang were arguing among themselves about whether they were going to leave," said Sarah.
"That’s when it got really scary because you think you’re going to get murdered – or worse.”
But thankfully David managed to smooth-talk the gang into remaining calm and leaving with their loot.
They escaped with cash and valuables including laptops, phones and cameras.
The Maison Noir continues to be advertised on Airbnb and is described as "...more than a luxurious place to stay - it is a home away from home.
“Here, every detail is crafted by hand, from the wooden floors and wooden furnishings made by local artisans, to the sweeping views framed by glass corridors.
“The outdoor spaces found throughout the property celebrate nature and the Villa's serene setting in an amphitheatre of mountains.”
A member of staff did not comment when contacted by the MoS.
Though South Africa remains a popular tourist destination, the government warns there is “a very high level of crime including rape and murder”.
The Foreign office warns: “The most violent crimes tend to occur in townships, remote and isolated areas and away from the normal tourist destinations.
“Most visits to South Africa are trouble-free, but you should take sensible precautions to protect your safety.”