Questionable motives behind persistent prosecution of Piet Kleynhans

18 September 2024

The renewed prosecution of a Free State farmer, Mr Piet Kleynhans, for an incident three years ago in which he shot the dogs of illegal hunters on his farm justifiably raises questions about the state's motives.

The case against Kleynhans was scrapped from the roll in March last year, but has now suddenly been re-opened with Kleynhans being informed that he will soon have to appear in court again on an attempted murder charge. According to a media report, he was also informed that he could possibly face additional charges as well.

Kleynhans was arrested three years ago after firing shots at dogs belonging to a group of illegal trespassers and hunters on his farm.

The farming community in the Free State is increasingly targeted by gangs that hunt illegally on agricultural land using cruel and inhumane hunting practices. These "hunters" set dogs on wild buck and other game and in many cases, the animals are mangled alive.

Like many other farmers, Kleynhans claims to have lodged several complaints about these illegal activities, but to no avail. Farmers feel that they are left to their fate.

During its own investigations, the FF Plus discovered that these gangs not only hunt illegally for fun, but also bet large sums of money on who can catch the most game in the shortest time. The problem has gotten so out of hand that agricultural associations are compelled to put up notices prohibiting illegal hunting practices on farms.

The persistent prosecution of a law-abiding farmer who merely defended his property against lawless gangs is unacceptable.

The FF Plus insists that the MEC for Community Safety, Roads and Transport in the Free State, Mr Jabu Mbalula, provides feedback on the recent meetings he had with organised agriculture, where livestock theft was high on the agenda.

It is crucial to also discuss the threat posed by illegal hunting as a serious crisis.

In terms of the Constitution, everyone in South Africa has the right to protect themselves and their property. If the relevant police members in this case had done their jobs properly by acting against the illegal poachers, this would not have been a problem.

Issued by Jan van Niekerk, FF Plus provincial leader: Free State, 18 September 2024