4 suspects in custody for Lephalale farm attack

LIMPOPO – This follows the arrest of the fourth suspect in connection with the attack and murder of Hendrick Peter Peterson (57) on the farm Fourieskloof outside Lephalale on 6 February.

According to reports Pieterson was hit over the head with a heavy object before the suspects fled in the deceased’s vehicle, a white Isuzu bakkie with registration BYZ 077 L.

A point 22 rifle, a 303 rifle and 2 cellphones were also taken during the assault. His son-in-law discovered him in the house the next morning and rushed him to hospital… he passed away before they reached the help.

Read more: suspects in custody following murder of Lephalale farmer (57)

According to a statement issued by Police Spokesperson, Lt Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe, the arrest of this fourth suspect, aged 35-years-old, was made during an intelligence driven operation at Steenbokpan outside Lephalale yesterday (Thursday).

“The suspect who had stolen a Hyundai H1 in Marapong two days ago had a breakdown along the road. Police managed to arrested him there and then and confiscate the stolen car,” explained Ngoepe.

He has also been linked to a series of house breaking and theft cases which were committed around Lephalale area some months back, he added.

The suspect will appear before the Ellisras Magistrate Court on Monday on charges of theft of motor vehicle and murder.

The case against the three suspects who were arrested earlier was postponed until the 6 March for further bail application.

All are still in custody and they were identified as follows:
– Phineas Molangoane aged 36
– Joel Matshaba aged 34
– Thapelo Motsamai aged 22

Police investigations are still continuing.