Beaten, bloodied, but alive
After suffering numerous losses to his farm during an attack in March, Adriaan Vos is asking for help from the community to decide what to do next.
After surviving a brutal farm attack, Adriaan Vos remains determined to rebuild and move forward.
• Also read: Glenharvie farmer still recovering in hospital after attack
On March 16, Vos was shot twice in the knee and once in the back during a violent assault on his property. His attackers set fire to his home, which was destroyed in the blaze. Now discharged from the hospital, Vos has returned to the site, where he is faced with the daunting task of cleaning up what remains – and deciding whether to rebuild.
“I am looking at the road ahead. There is a God above who knows what our path looks like,” Vos said.
While recovering in the hospital, more loss followed. Thieves looted the property, stealing what little had survived the fire. Vos estimates his total losses – including the house, its contents, and his workshop – at around R1.5m. The farm’s transformer and power cables were also stolen.
Despite everything, Vos remains hopeful. He explained that he has removed the cast from his leg and is slowly regaining mobility.
The bullet is still in my leg, but I’m able to move around and even drive. Every day, I’m doing better. I’m just glad to be alive,” he said.
Vos said he would decide about rebuilding once he had a clearer idea of what support is available. He’s not asking for financial donations, but would welcome practical help, especially building materials, to replace what was lost, including a water tank that was destroyed in the fire.
“I would appreciate it if the community could assist with donations. That would guide me in deciding what to do,” he said.
During the chaos, Vos’s daughter and the farm workers acted quickly, moving remaining possessions – including his dogs – off the property to prevent further loss.
Having lived on the farm for nearly 20 years, Vos says he’s not ready to walk away. Despite the trauma, he believes the land is still safe and remains committed to staying.
This is my place. I’m not going anywhere. I won’t run away,” he declared.
Anyone who would like to help can contact Vos directly at 078 818 5338, or support the recovery effort through the BackaBuddy campaign here.
