A 72-year-old Limpopo farmer, Johan van Eck, is recovering after a violent attack at Carpe Diem Farm in Trichardtsdal on Saturday.

He was admitted to Hoedspruit Private Hospital in critical condition and underwent nearly four hours of surgery to treat multiple stab and panga wounds, including a fractured C3 vertebra in his neck.

Letaba Herald reports that miraculously, major veins and nerves were unharmed, and his condition has since stabilised.

Robbery unfolds inside farmhouse bathroom

According to the police, Hoedspruit Farm Watch responded to a report of the attack at around 08:30 after a co-worker found Van Eck severely injured inside his home.

Investigations revealed that Van Eck had returned to the farm around 08:00 to collect belongings after relocating to Hoedspruit. While in the bathroom, he was ambushed by two unknown assailants armed with pangas, a knife, and straps.

Maruleng Local Municipality FF Plus councillor Pieter Gerber said Van Eck tried to explain to the attackers that he only wanted to finalise his last responsibilities, but they began striking him while he was seated.

Realising he had to fight for his life, he resisted fiercely.

Suspects flee on foot with cash

The suspects fled on foot after robbing him of approximately R2 500 in cash, intended for a personal employee with who Van Eck had a close relationship. Van Eck had prepared a farewell gift for the employee and arranged to meet him to load the final belongings and say goodbye.

Emergency services, Hoedspruit and Ofcolaco Farm Watch, and the police responded quickly, following the suspects’ trail into Lorraine Village. However, operations were suspended due to heat, time delays, and heavy foot traffic.

The crime scene has been preserved for further investigation.

The suspects are described only as one tall male and one shorter male; no clothing details are available. Gerber described the attack as ‘senseless’, with only cash taken.

Police detectives, crime intelligence, and a tracking team are continuing efforts to trace the suspects.

Attack sparks concern in farming community

The incident has sparked concern within the local farming community.

According to Van Eck’s family and hospital staff, it was by the grace of God that he had the strength to resist and fight for his life, as both suspects were at least 40 years younger and heavily armed.

Van Eck emphasised that his survival, despite the severity of his injuries, was nothing short of miraculous.

Van Eck’s family thanked the police, Hoedspruit and Ofcolaco Farm Watch for prioritising the investigation, and the Hoedspruit and Ofcolaco communities for their ongoing support and prayers.

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