Farmer’s alleged murderers in court apprehended

MBOMBELA – Three men, believed to have been involved in the murder of Brondal farmer Mr Koos Kruger in February, were arrested near Hazyview on March 8.

Lowvelder was able to confirm with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) that Mr Xolani Mnyambo (29), Mr Sifiso Rhoo Mathebula (35) and Mr Given Mangwetani Makhubela (27) appeared in the Sabie Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on charges of robbery, murder and the possession of unlicensed firearms. According to Mr Velekhaya Mgobhozi, spokesman for the NPA, bail was denied.

SAPS provincial spokesman, Sgt Gerald Sedibe said the three were arrested at one of their houses in Shabalala Trust. In the early hours of February 28, a number of men allegedly broke into Kruger’s house where he, his wife and their 14-year-old daughter were sleeping.

He woke to find the group, one armed with a revolver and asked them what they were doing in his house. The armed man then shot him in the side and arm, perforating his lung, heart and colon. Ms Lee Kruger was assaulted but not seriously injured during the ordeal. Their daughter locked herself in her room when she heard the commotion.

Koos was rushed to Mediclinic Nelspruit. His wounds became infected and his kidneys failed. He succumbed to his injuries five days later.

There are still a number of suspects at large and the Sabie SAPS have made the investigation a priority. The three suspects will appear in court again on April 21.