BREYTEN – The National African Farmers Union (NAFU) Mpumalanga has condemned the death of Bishop Fetjie Virginia Mngomezulu (61), who was killed in a tragic incident on a farm near Breyten on November 5.

NAFU president Jabu Mahlangu said the organisation is “deeply saddened and outraged” by the loss of a respected community leader and called for swift justice.

“Bishop Mngomezulu was a pillar of strength and a voice for justice. We urge authorities to act with urgency and ensure that those responsible are brought to book,” he said in a statement released by the union.

Mahlangu added that harsher sentences for violent crimes could help curb rising farm attacks and rural killings.

He also urged government departments to “show their commitment by ensuring justice and reinforcing safety for farmers.”

“NAFU stands in solidarity with the affected families and the Breyten community,” Mahlangu concluded.

Police have clarified that the matter is not being investigated as murder at this stage.

SAPS spokesperson Lt Col Jabu Ndubane confirmed the case remains registered as culpable homicide.

“No SAPS member has referred to it as murder. The docket has been referred to the Senior Public Prosecutor for a decision, and the investigation is ongoing,” she said.

Ndubane added that statements have been obtained from the tractor driver and a farmer linked to the incident, and further steps will follow once prosecutorial guidance is received.

Read the full report and official responses in this week’s print edition of the Highvelder.