Former cop in Waterval Boven court for murder of farm worker

Hendrik Johannes Visagie, who was employed as a farm manager at Schoonspruit Farm in Waterval Boven (Emgwenya), yesterday appeared in the Waterval Boven Magistrate’s Court facing charges of murder, defeating the course of justice and possession of firearms and ammunition.

He chose not to apply for bail and the case was postponed until June 5 for investigation.

Middelburg Observer previously reported that Visagie was arrested for the murder of  missing farm worker, 32-year-old West Michael Nkosi, who was last seen alive in Visagie’s presence.

According to Waterval Boven SAPS media spokesperson Sergeant Mandla Nxumalo, Visagie was arrested on April 25 after handing himself over to the station commander.

Nkosi was reported missing in April 22 by his mother, who Visagie drove to the police station. Nkosi allegedly went missing on April 20 at 17:30, after last being seen on the farm with Visagie.

Nxumalo said a three-day search ensued, during which the investigating officer visited the farm every day. It is alleged that Visagie pretended not to know Nkosi’s whereabouts.

He, however, called the station commander that Thursday, when he allegedly admitted to the murder and proceeded to point out where he had hidden Nkosi’s remains and two hunting rifles.

It is further alleged that Visagie then told police of how he and Nkosi had shot a Springbok, after which they drove to Badplaas to sell the meat for R500.

They then allegedly used the money to buy alcohol.

It was also allegedly stated that Nkosi then wanted to confess to the farm owner that they hunted his game, which led to an argument.

The two returned to the farm, where Visagie allegedly shot Nkosi and proceeded to load his body into the farm vehicle before hiding it elsewhere in some bushes.

According to a statement issued by Nxumalo, Visagie has two previous convictions, one of which occurred in 2001, for which he paid an admission of guilt of R200; and one of pointing a firearm and assault and causing grievous bodily harm, for which he paid a fine of R6 000.

During his recent court appearance, a large crowd of protesters gathered outside the court to express support for the Nkosi family and demand that bail be denied.