Farm owner survives violent attack in Mpumalanga, Malawian suspect arrested
A Chrissiesmeer farm owner is recovering in hospital after being stabbed in the neck during a violent attack on his property in the early hours of Friday morning.
Police in Mpumalanga confirmed that a 46-year-old Malawian national has been arrested in connection with the incident and is facing charges of attempted murder, stock theft, and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Provincial police spokesperson Sergeant Thulisile Magagula said officers responded swiftly after receiving information about the attack.
“On arrival, police and emergency services found the farm owner suffering from a stab wound to the neck, while one suspect had sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh. Both were transported to the hospital for medical treatment,” she said.
Magagula added that the victim had gone to investigate after noticing that his farm’s perimeter fence had been cut.
“He was then suddenly attacked by two suspects, one of whom stabbed him. In self-defence, the victim managed to shoot one of the attackers, while the second suspect fled on foot,” Magagula explained.
The arrested suspect remains under police guard in hospital and will appear in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court once declared medically fit.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect who fled is currently out on bail for other cases in Carolina and Chrissiesmeer.
Meanwhile, acting provincial commissioner of police in Mpumalanga, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, has welcomed the arrest.
“It is clear that the suspect has not learned his lesson, as he continues to commit crimes while out on bail. He will be put where he belongs,” said Mkhwanazi.
Police have urged anyone with information that may help track down the outstanding suspect to contact Detective Constable Wiseman Nkonyane on 079 499 9489, or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111. Information may also be shared anonymously via the My SAPS App.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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