This comes after SAPS’ spokesperson in the Free State, Motantsi Makhele, had confirmed that the suspects were arrested by Harrismith and Ladysmith police shortly after an attack on a farm in the Harrismith district in the Free State on Monday 16 August 2021. Makhele said the 54-year-old complainant, residing at this farm, alleged that he was at his storeroom when three unknown males appeared and told him they wanted to buy cattle. One suspect allegedly pointed a gun at him and started to demand money shortly after he had told them that he wasn’t selling cattle. The victim was then pushed into the house and was instructed to open the safe. After the suspects discovered that there was no money in the safe, the criminals allegedly took the complainant’s two rifles, cell phone and other valuables. The victim was then tied to a chair and the suspects fled the scene.

Makhele further said the victim allegedly untied himself and went to a neighbouring farm to ask for help. The police were alerted and immediately reacted, with the help of the farmers, and suspects were apprehended in Ladysmith in KwaZulu-Natal, where firearms were confiscated.

Meanwhile, OFM News previously reported that the police have launched a manhunt for suspects after a family of five were found murdered on the Toekoms Farm outside Harrismith on Saturday 7 August. Makhele told OFM News that a traditional healer, who allegedly had an appointment with the family, made the gruesome discovery. He alerted the neighbors who alerted the police. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi