A 49-year-old farmer was murdered at about 06:00, Monday morning, 2012-02-20, on a farm called Frischgewaagd, in the Buffelshoek area, close to Potchefstroom (see Beeld report).

The farmer and his 45-year old wife were milking cows in their dairy, which is situated 70m from their house, when they were overpowered by approximately 5 unknown armed suspects. They were both taken back to the farmhouse, when there was a confrontation between the suspects and the farmer.

The farmer was  shot from behind in the head and he passed away on the scene, between the farmhouse and dairy. His wife was taken inside the house and tied up. She was assaulted by the suspects on her head with a blunt object. The suspects fled the scene in a Nissan Almera, belonging to the farmer with registration number: FMC 425 NW.  

A family friend that came to visit the farmer and his wife manage to untie the wife and informed neighboring farmers of the incident. The Police were then informed of the attack. The 45-year old wife was taken to hospital for medical treatment. Police are currently on the scene and a full police investigation will be conducted.

The police would like to request the community to be on the lookout for the Nissan Almera with registration number FMC 425 NW. If this vehicle is noticed, please phone the nearest police station or phone the following emergency numbers: 10111/112. Please do not confront the occupants as they are armed and dangerous.

The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lt General Zukiswa Mbombo send her condolences to the family of the deceased farmer and said that the Police will continue to search for the suspects until they are behind bars and face the full brunt of the Law.

"SAPS TOGETHER SQUEEZING CRIME to ZERO"

Statement issued by Brig S T Ngubane, SAPS Provincial Head: Corporate Communication
North West Province, February 20 2012 (via Platinum Weekly)

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