S.Africa: Brondal farm attack: Security guard shot dead, farmer still critical
The FF Plus in Mpumalanga herewith expresses its condolences to the next of kin of the J&M / Fidelity ADT response officer who was shot and killed during a farm attack in the Brondal region just outside Mbombela (Nelspruit).
The owner of the farm is in a critical, but stable condition after having been shot by the three perpetrators as well.
It is alarming that the assailants were clothed in uniforms strongly resembling those of security guards during the attack seeing as this seems to be a trend that is on the rise.
This attack serves as clear proof that the police force cannot properly perform its duties, particularly during the Covid-19 lockdown period, without the help of farm and neighbourhood watches as well as Community Policing Forums.
The FF Plus has pointed out to the Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Vusi Shongwe, several times in the past that these safety and security structures must be reinstituted to ensure the community’s safety and to offer swift response when help is needed.
Pertinent questions about rural safety in Mpumalanga were also put to the MEC.
During the period of lockdown, the farming community and those residing in rural areas in general find themselves in a particularly vulnerable position.
The FF Plus will continue to endeavour to make the government realise that effectively combating farm attacks must be a priority.
The party prays that the farmer and other victims will make a speedy and full recovery.