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A farmer was arrested in connection with the burning of a police vehicle at Senekal Magistrates Court in the Free State on Tuesday.
The 52-year-old is expected to face charges for intentional property damage.
Free State Police said in a statement that investigations into the matter were still continuing and more arrests were imminent. “We believe that ongoing relations between the police and farmers and farming communities will help end this matter and ensure that justice prevails,” Lt. Gen. Baile Motswenyane said in a statement.
On Tuesday, thousands of farmers flocked to the small town of Senekal to protest after the murder of farm manager Brendin Horner.
READ | Bheki Cele condemns ‘anarchy’ outside Senekal court
The 21-year-old, who ran a farm in Paul Roux, was allegedly killed and allegedly found with a rope around his neck and tied to a post.
The suspects, Sekwetje Mahlamba and Sekola Matlaletsa, were arrested and briefly appeared in court on Tuesday, where the case was postponed until October 16.
Assaulted
Following the court appearance, a small group of farmers allegedly broke into the court building.
During an alleged altercation, a police vehicle was overturned and set on fire.
READ | Police van set on fire as’ armed farmers raid holding cells in the murder of accused Brendin Horner‘
There were also reports of judicial property damage.
Police Minister Bheki Cele and Justice Minister Ronald Lamola have condemned the incident.
In Wednesday’s statement, police said that following a violent incident in court on Tuesday, an investigation team led by a senior officer was appointed to investigate and identify those responsible for the public violence.
It subsequently led to the arrest of the 52-year-old farmer.
This is a developing story.
