Limpopo — A 28-year-old man arrested in connection with the brutal murder and robbery of a Tolwe farmer has appeared briefly in court as police intensify the search for a second suspect.
The accused, Hendrik Chimole, appeared before the Senwabarwana Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 3 December 2025.
He was remanded in custody, with the case postponed to Thursday, 4 December 2025, for the appointment of Legal Aid representation. He is expected to appear before the Tolwe Periodical Court.
Police arrested Chimole in the early hours of Tuesday, 2 December, during a coordinated operation involving the Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit, Tolwe Detectives, Bosbeld Misdaad Ondersoeke, and Bosveld Plaasbeveiliging security companies.
The operation followed the violent attack on 77-year-old farmer Attie Mahne, who was found tied up and unconscious inside his farmhouse.
🚨#farmmurder South Africa – 29/11/2025
A 77-year-old farmer, At Mahne, has died following a farm attack in Baltimore (Limpopo), South Africa.
His wife, Pietro Mahne, was severely assaulted during the attack and was rushed to Ellisras Hospital for emergency treatment.According… pic.twitter.com/xxcQZT5qdk
— 𝖱𝖤𝖢𝖮𝖭𝟣 ®✞ (@Recon1_ZA) November 30, 2025
He was later declared dead at the scene by Emergency Medical Services.
Police spokesperson Colonel (insert SAPS spokesperson title/name if required) said the recovered evidence will form a critical part of the investigation.
“During the arrest, our teams managed to recover the victim’s firearm, a 38 Special revolver, along with six live rounds of ammunition,” the spokesperson said.
“Several other items were also reported stolen, including an undisclosed amount of cash.”
Police have launched a manhunt for the second suspect believed to have been involved in the attack.
“We are leaving no stone unturned. The search for the remaining suspect is continuing, and we urge anyone with information to come forward,” the spokesperson added.
SAPS has called on community members, particularly in rural areas, to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as investigations continue.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
