A transaction involving 15 tonnes of rice turned tragic on Thursday in Ambohimasina, in Ambatondrazaka district. A couple of traders who came to collect payment for their merchandise fell victim to a premeditated assault. The couple, from Didy, had sold 15 tonnes of rice to a woman for 15.6 million ariary. At the agreed payment time, the client allegedly prepared a plan to eliminate the merchandise owners. According to information gathered, two men were reportedly stationed inside her home awaiting the couple's arrival. The victims, accompanied by their young child, went to collect their money. The woman herself came to meet them and lead them to her home. Once there, she allegedly served them fruit juice laced with an unknown substance, possibly a sedative. She then attempted to delay the couple by conversing with them, hoping the substance would take effect. Impatient to collect their money and return home, the traders asked her to proceed quickly with payment. As the substance had apparently not yet taken effect, the two men hidden in the house allegedly launched their attack. They assaulted the couple, striking them notably in the throat, before brandishing knives and restraining both traders. Meanwhile, the woman allegedly attempted to strangle their young child. Trapped, the couple fought back while calling for help. Their screams alerted nearby residents. As neighbors approached the house to understand what was happening, they reportedly saw the property owner emerge with blood-covered hands. She then attempted to minimize the situation, telling neighbors it was merely a marital dispute and asking them to leave, assuring them everything was resolved. But the situation was far from over. Seizing a favorable moment, the injured female victim managed to escape. She immediately alerted neighbors, revealing that the property owner's explanations were false and that the couple was actually victim to a murder attempt. Alerted, the two men fled. The woman suspected of participating in the assault also disappeared. Searches continue to locate the three suspects. An investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances. Injured during the assault, the victims were transported to a health center where they received necessary treatment.