He and his grandson (17) are facing multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, and defeating the ends of justice. His grandson was released into the care of a guardian in accordance with the Child Justice Act during his first court appearance.

The shocking discovery was made on 20 August when residents tipped off the police about possible human remains on the farm located between Welkom and Kroonstad. 

DNA samples were taken in an effort to confirm the identity of the deceased. Police arrested the farmer on Tuesday (2/9), after preliminary investigations linked the crime scene to him.

The EFF and ActionSA have publicly welcomed the arrest, calling for a harsh sentence. Both parties stressed the importance of justice and accountability, regardless of age or status.

Despite the serious charges, the accused maintains his innocence. Through his legal representative, he pleaded not guilty, claiming he did not know the deceased, nor had any prior relationship with the individual. He also denied that the deceased had ever worked on his farm.

The defence argued the accused could not meaningfully respond to the charges until full disclosure of evidence was made by the prosecution. The State opposed bail, painting a picture of the accused as reckless and dangerous, describing him as “trigger-happy” and further stating he failed to report incidents of crime on his property.

 OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg