Free State – Police have arrested two suspects following a violent farm incident in Senekal in the Free State that left property damaged and a dog shot dead.
According to South African Police Service (SAPS), the suspects, aged 19 and 56, were apprehended on Wednesday, 8 April 2026, at a smallholding in Bethlehem.
Four firearms were seized during the arrest and will undergo ballistic testing.
“It is alleged that on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, a 65-year-old farmer from Senekal was inside his farm workshop when he noticed a white bakkie driving past his farm,” SAPS said in a statement.
“Approximately 15 minutes later, he heard gunshots and again observed the same vehicle, which then sped off.”
Police said the farmer pursued the vehicle and recognised the driver as his business partner from Bethlehem. During the chase, the suspect allegedly rammed the farmer’s vehicle multiple times.
“During the pursuit, the suspect allegedly rammed into the farmer’s bakkie door three times. The farmer was not injured during the incident,” SAPS confirmed.
On returning to the farm, the complainant discovered extensive damage.
“His dog had been shot and killed, tractor tyres had been shot and deflated, and his hay had been set alight,” the statement read.
Authorities also revealed that tensions between the parties had been ongoing.
“Further allegations indicate that the suspect had previously threatened the complainant via a WhatsApp message in November 2025, allegedly warning that he would kill him following a dispute involving sheep that were removed through a court order,” SAPS said.
The two suspects are expected to appear before the Senekal Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 13 April 2026. They face charges of attempted murder, malicious damage to property and animal cruelty.
Picture: Pixabay
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
