Eight suspects aged between 21 and 39 are expected to appear in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court today, October 16, following their arrest on Taaiboschspruit Farm, Sheepmoor, on Monday.
The suspects were arrested after the farm owner had complained about their intimidation, malicious damage to property and coercion.
According to the police’s spokesperson, Captain Magonseni Nkosi, some community members from around the farm had come together and coerced the farm owner to arrange a joint meeting that included both parties as well as the Department of Land Affairs.
“It also is alleged that in July, the community members constantly damaged the farmer’s fence, burning trees on the farm and distracting normal farm activities that costed the farmer a lot of money.
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“The farmer finally resorted to report the matter to the police. Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of these eight suspects, hence their appearance in court. The police cannot rule out the possibility of adding more charges,” said Nkosi.
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The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, emphasised that violence is never the solution and urged citizens to follow the right channels and consult with relevant stakeholders to solve their concerns.
