Farmer accused of inciting violence outside Senekal court denied bail – the Citizen



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André Pienaar, the farmer accused of inciting violence in Senekal Magistrates Court in Free State last week, was denied bail after briefly appearing in the same court Tuesday morning.

The 52-year-old was arrested on Wednesday, October 7, after farmers participated in violent protests outside of court the day before when the two suspects in the murder of 22-year-old farm manager Brendin Horner made their first appearance.

The court determined that there is the possibility of public protests if Pienaar is released on bail, although he could also interfere with witnesses. The seriousness of the charges against him also justified the restriction of his freedoms.

The violent protests prompted Police Minister Bheki Cele to call for swift action in response to the matter.

LOOK: Farmer who requested assault on the Senekal court accused of terrorism

Horner’s body was discovered tied to a post, with multiple stab wounds and head injuries earlier this month, causing outrage among the farming community as it is under siege from criminal attackers.

Meanwhile, Pienaar faces charges of assault, malicious damage to property and public violence after he filed for bail on Friday. A proposed terrorism charge was not approved by the NPA and therefore removed from the charge sheet.

His case has been postponed until November 20 for further investigation.

Last attack on the farm

Meanwhile, a farmer having lunch at his Vandermerwesdam home in Koffiefontein, Free State was attacked by two men on Monday.

Andries Smith Myburgh, 31, smelled smoke and, while investigating, was hit on the head with an object. Myburgh managed to drive the suspect away, but was later attacked with a knife by a second suspect. They also doused it with gasoline.

Myburgh then drew his firearm and fired in the direction of the suspects, but then realized it was on fire and jumped into the pool at his farm. In the process, the two suspects fled on foot.

PHOTOS: Protesters pray at Union Buildings for farm attacks and murders

Myburgh quickly alerted neighbors and the police. He was not seriously injured and was treated by medical personnel.

Brigadier Motantsi Makhele said a suspect was identified as a tall man, who was about 2 meters tall, wearing green overalls and a light blue shirt.

The second suspect wore a blue jumpsuit. Both suspects are unknown to Myburgh.

Additional reporting by Nica Richards

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