Eight suspects, aged between 21 and 39, have been arrested for allegedly terrorising a Sheepmoor farm with acts of intimidation, vandalism, and destruction. The arrests followed a series of escalating incidents that left the farm owner fearing for his life.
The suspects were apprehended on Monday, 14 October, in the Taaiboschspruit area after the farm owner reported ongoing acts of intimidation, malicious damage to property, and disruptions to farming operations.
Community members had allegedly coerced the farm owner into convening a joint meeting to discuss the ongoing disputes, which were reportedly triggered by continuous damage to the farm since July.
“It is also alleged that from July 2024, the community members repeatedly damaged the farmer’s fence, burnt trees on the farm, and disrupted normal farm activities, which cost the farmer a substantial amount of money,” said Captain Magonseni Nkosi, police spokesperson.
After months of sustained damage, the farm owner sought assistance from the police. A preliminary investigation led to the arrest of the eight suspects, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) has indicated that further charges may be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.
The group appeared in the Ermelo Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 15 October, to face charges.
In response to the arrests, the acting provincial commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, urged community members to address grievances through the appropriate channels and consult relevant stakeholders
IOL