SAPS, the Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, and farmers continue their search for the suspects who killed Newcastle farmer Tollie Nel Snr last night.

Nel, a farmer and businessman, was shot dead in his home at Krommellenboog Farm between Newcastle and Utrecht around 20:00.

Nel sustained multiple gunshots, four in the stomach and one to the head, when five balaclava-clad men entered his home and robbed the family of five weapons before fleeing on foot.

A local vet was called upon to treat the family’s dog, which was injured, reportedly in its attempt to defend Nel.

A source involved in the search who asked to remain anonymous says he believes the suspects entered the home through the office while the family was watching TV.

The son, Theunis Nel Jnr, who resides in a house behind the main house, was tied up during the robbery, before the assailants made their way to the main house.

Items of clothing, presumably worn by the suspects, were discovered discarded on the R34.

Investigations are ongoing.