North West police have arrested three more suspects following a violent farm robbery and attempted murder in Syferfontein, Ventersdorp, in which a 50-year-old farmer was shot and had his ears cut off.
The latest arrests bring the number of suspects arrested in connection with the incident to five.
The attack happened last Wednesday.
The three suspects were arrested on Sunday by Ventersdorp detectives, supported by members of the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit, in Promosa, near Potchefstroom, following intensive investigations and operational efforts.
“During the operation, police seized four firearms, of which two are linked to the Ventersdorp incident, as well as clothing items and jewellery,” North West police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh said.
Four firearms seized
Myburgh said the arrests followed an incident in which the farmer was shot and brutally assaulted, with his ears cut off.
North West Commissioner Lieutenant-General Arthur Peter Adams welcomed the latest arrests and commended the Ventersdorp detectives and Provincial Anti-Gang Unit for their efforts in tracking down those responsible.
Adams said the arrests demonstrated the police’s commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes were brought to justice.
“We commend the investigating team, under the command of Captain Bonita Dry, for their persistence and determination in following up on leads, which have resulted in further arrests and the recovery of firearms and other items of evidential value,” he said.
The five suspects, aged between 26 and 56, are expected to appear before the Ventersdorp and Potchefstroom Magistrate’s Courts on Tuesday.
They face charges of house robbery, attempted murder and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.
