The Western Cape Government has condemned the recent assault of a farmer near Lambert’s Bay, as police investigate attempted murder and stock theft.
Western Cape SAPS spokesperson Captain F.C. Van Wyk confirmed that the incident took place last Thursday just before midday, near a farm along the R365. A 56-year-old male victim, identified as Hugo Louw, was found there.
“The victim sustained several wounds to his head. He was taken to a nearby medical facility for treatment,” said Van Wyk.
Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism MEC, Dr Ivan Meyer, believes there may have been an altercation between the farmer and suspected stock thieves. Police have confirmed that they are working to establish the circumstances of the incident.
“The incident followed a confrontation between Mr. Louw and suspected stock thieves. He was assaulted next to the roadway and later airlifted in critical condition to Christiaan Barnard Hospital in Cape Town,” said Meyer.
Van Wyk added that at the time the victim was being transported to the hospital, two suspects were spotted hiding in bushes near the scene.
“The suspects had blood stains on their clothes and near the scene a slaughtered sheep was found that was hidden in the bushes.”
Police noted that three suspects were subsequently arrested.
“A case of attempted murder and stock theft was registered for investigation,” said Van Wyk.
Meanwhile, in a statement on Saturday, Meyer strongly condemned the attack. He noted that incidents like this have far-reaching and “severe” impacts.
“I am deeply saddened and outraged by the attack on Mr. Hugo Louw. Acts of violence against farmers and agri-workers threaten not only the safety of those who feed our nation but also the stability of our agricultural economy. Stock theft and violent crime undermine livelihoods, weaken rural communities, and place immense emotional and financial strain on farming families,” said Meyer.
Meyer further said that his department would oppose bail in the case against the suspects, because he “wants justice for our farmers across South Africa”.
“Every attack on a farmer or agri-worker is an attack on the agricultural sector itself. We will continue to advocate for stronger policing resources, better crime intelligence, and effective prosecution of those who target our rural communities.”
Meyer also praised the swift response and cooperation between law enforcement and local farm watch groups, adding that collaboration is a vital in improving rural safety across the Western Cape.
“The Minister wished Mr. Louw a full and swift recovery and extended his support to the Louw family and the surrounding community during this difficult time,” said Meyer.
Meyer was among a group of people that gathered at the Lambert’s Bay Magistrates Court on Monday morning, for the suspects’ first court appearance.
