The duo were arrested at the Lefaragatlhe village near Tlhabane following an incident in which a shepherd was killed and livestock robbed at a cattle post in Serutube village outside Rustenburg on Thursday.

According to police spokesperson, Aafje Botma, information available at this stage suggests that three herdsmen were herding cattle at about 17:00 when three unknown men emerged from the bushes.

The trio caught one of the herdsmen and tied his hands together with a rope, then robbed him of his money and cell phone. The suspects went to another herdsman (aged 25), tied his hands, and also robbed him of his cell phone and cash.

Furthermore, the suspects allegedly demanded the cattle and in the process, shot and killed the 25-year-old herdsman while his colleagues were assaulted with the butt of a firearm.

The suspects then drove out a herd of cattle from the cattle post.

A manhunt launched by Phokeng Detectives and Stock Theft Unit immediately after the incident, led to the recovery of 21 head of cattle in Lefaragatlhe village. Consequently, 11 head of cattle were positively identified and linked with the incident.

Further investigations revealed that two other cows with calves were stolen a week ago at the same place.

In addition, police seized other cattle found at the place for further investigation.

Statement supplied