Siphamandla Petse, 24, made a brief appearance in the Alexandria Magistrates court Monday in connection the recent attack on Alexandria farmer Riaan Scheepers. The breakthrough by Alexandria Detectives came on Friday after around-the-clock investigations into last Saturday morning’s attack, police spokesperson Captain Mali Govender said.
Scheepers, in his 60s, remains in hospital in a serious condition after being severely beaten in his home by two men who fled with his bakkie which was abandoned and later recovered.
Several items of clothing as well as the victim’s cell phone were recovered in Friday’s arrest, Govender said, and would all be forwarded for further forensic analysis.
Chairperson of the Alexandria Agricultural Association Brent McNamara expressed their heartfelt thanks to the SAPS investigation team led by Captain Leon Els for the way in which they have tackled the investigation.
“Our thanks also goes out to the community who have provided input to date and who we urge to continue to forward any further information to ensure that a successful conviction of the perpetrators is obtained,” McNamara said.
Petse has been remanded in custody until Tuesday 12 December for a formal bail application.
Investigations continue and Port Alfred Cluster Commander Brigadier Morgan Govender said last week, “We are working closely with the farming community who have been of great assistance and will continue to follow up on any information received.”
Any person with information on this incident is asked to call Detective Commander Captain Leon Els at 083 387 0749, their nearest police station, or the crime stop number 0860 10111. All information is strictly confidential and the caller has a choice to remain anonymous.
