Dr Ivan Meyer, Western Cape minister of agriculture, economic development and tourism, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and farming community of Porterville following a tragic incident at the Tevrede farm. The farm manager was fatally attacked by unknown assailants, prompting deep sorrow and concern in the region.
Meyer stressed the fundamental right of every farmer and agricultural worker to be treated with dignity, stressing that an attack on them directly impacts the rural economy.
Highlighting the pivotal role of agriculture in the West Coast district, he noted that the sector significantly influences income levels and household spending, underscoring its economic importance.
The incident has been recorded on the Western Cape department of agriculture’s rural safety dashboard, and will be closely monitored through the department of police oversight and community policing’s court watching brief.
Commitment to rural safety and collaborative efforts
\Meyer reaffirmed the commitment of the Western Cape government to the provincial rural safety plan, a collaborative effort with the police, neighbourhood and farm watches, and other stakeholders aimed at enhancing security in rural areas.
He emphasised the need for farmers and agricultural workers to operate without fear, noting ongoing efforts to foster crime-free rural landscapes.
“Our partnerships with rural communities and the 450 registered farm and neighbourhood guards are vital in realising our vision of safer environments,” Meyer stated.
He pledged continued collaboration with Anroux Marais, Western Cape minister of police oversight and community safety, to ensure the safety of those who form the backbone of the agricultural economy.
Meyer concluded by affirming the Western Cape government’s commitment to supporting law enforcement agencies in bringing the perpetrators to justice, underscoring the collective determination to uphold safety and security in rural areas.
Community in shock
The Rural and Farmworkers Development Organisation also expressed profound shock over the farm attack, occurring in the early hours of Monday morning. According to police reports, five armed assailants entered the victims’ home around 01:00.
During the attack, a 65-year-old man was fatally stabbed, while his wife was bound as the attackers looted the premises, taking firearms, ammunition, and cell phones. The wife managed to escape and seek help from neighbours, but tragically, her husband succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a nearby hospital.
Billy Claasen, representing the organisation, visited the scene and expressed dismay, stating, “We are in shock about what happened here.”
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