Modimolle worker shot dead: hunter (39) remanded in custody
The 23-year-old farm worker was shot and killed during an alleged hunting incident on Saturday
LIMPOPO -The 39-year-old man accused of shooting the killing farm worker over the weekend appeared today in the Modimolle Magistrate’s Court on a charge of murder.
The accused, Steven Hepburn, was arrested this morning (Monday) after the charge was changed from culpable homicide to that of murder, said Police Spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo.
The case has been postponed to 16 February for formal bail application. The accused remains in custody.
Mojapelo added that the deceased’s name is Jan Railo (23 ) and confirmed he was working at neighboring farm.
08:00
LIMPOPO – A 39-year-old suspect is expected to appear before the Modimolle Magistrate’s Court today on a charge of murder.
This follows the shooting and killing of a 23-year-old farm worker during an alleged hunting incident on Saturday evening.
“The hunters, a man and woman were allegedly hunting for warthogs “bosvarke” when they heard a movement nearby. The man then fired shots in the direction hitting the victim. It is alleged that when they reached the spot that they realised they shot a human being,” explained Mojapelo.
He added that the victim died on the scene. The police were called and the firearm used during the incident was taken for ballistic examination.
The case of culpable homicide has been changed to murder. The Provincial detectives have since taken over the investigations, said Police Spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo.
It is said the deceased worked on a neighbouring farm. His name will only be released once the next of kin have been informed.
12 February
LIMPOPO – The police are investigating a case of culpable homicide after a farm worker was shot and killed by hunters during an alleged incident of mistaken identity.
According to a statement issued by Police Spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, the said incident happened at around 20:30 yesterday evening on Meisiesvlei farm, Tuinplaas near Modimolle.
“The hunters, a man and woman were allegedly hunting for warthogs “bosvarke” when they heard movement nearby. The man then fired shots in the direction hitting the victim. It is alleged when they reached the spot they realised they shot a human being,” explained Mojapelo.
He added that the victim died on the scene. The police were called and the firearm used during the incident was taken for ballistic examination.
It is said the deceased worked on a neighbouring farm and could be aged 23 or 24-years-old, he said.
Police investigations are continue, concluded Mojapelo.
