MALALANE – A manhunt is underway for the suspects in last night’s farm attack in the area. They allegedly fled the scene in a stolen white Nissan Hardbody with registration number DFG735MP.
“We are looking for the vehicle and believe that it may still be in the possession of the attackers,” said Brig Selvy Mohlala.
The body of Mr Riaan van den Berg (43) was discovered in his homestead in Malalane by his best friend on May 30.
According to Mohlala it appears that Van den Berg was assaulted and killed by his attackers.
He said: “We are investigating a case of murder and house robbery after the body of Mr Riaan van den Berg was discovered by a close friend this morning. He was found with his hands and feet tied up. A plastic bag found on the scene suggests that the victim was strangled to death.”
According to Mohlala the suspects made away with the vehicle, household appliances and the victim’s cellphone.
“The victim’s television set, home-theatre system, fridge and a tumble dryer were also missing. We also could not find his cellphone on his body, suggesting that it had been taken by his attackers,” said Mohlala.
No arrests have been made by the police so far.
Meanwhile the Malalane Against Crime group (MAC) has sent out an sms and emails with the description and registration number of the stolen bakkie.
“The missing vehicle is a white Nissan Hardbody 2.5i, registration DFG735MP. Its tailgate is believed to be rusted,” said MAC.
The group also issued a warning to the public: “Please be careful, put into place security measures and above all, keep communication lines open. If you hear gunshots at night, take them seriously and if called upon to respond for assistance please do so. Also report any suspicious movement.”
Van den Berg’s family announced that the funeral will be held at the Hervormde Kerk on June 6 at 10:00.
