Senekal farmer accused of inciting public violence denied bail



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This followed the chaos that erupted in court last week when local farmers stormed the building demanding that the two suspects accused of murdering Brendin Horner be turned over to the community.

JOHANNESBURG – The Senekal Magistrates Court in the Free State on Tuesday morning denied bail to Andre Pienaar, 51, who faces charges of attempted murder, intentional damage to property and public violence.

Pienaar was arrested after local farmers destroyed property and set fire to a police vehicle.

The group was demanding that police hand over two suspects linked to the murder this month of local farm manager Brendin Horner.

The 21-year-old’s body was found tied to a post with a rope around his neck.

Police Minister Bheki Cele was expected to visit his family on Tuesday. Then he would meet with the local farming community later on.

Judge Buti Mlangeni denied Pienaar’s release on bail, saying his release would jeopardize the administration of justice, undermine public peace and security, and provoke a public outcry.

He said that the release of Pienaar would shock society and be seen as a promotion of anarchy.

Mlangeni said Pienaar also assaulted a female police officer on sight and fired shots inside the court building, injuring some prisoners who were being held at the time.

Pienaar’s wife sobbed softly as he was taken out of the courtroom and back to the cells.

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