Staff Reporter
Three alleged criminals are dead after succumbing to their injuries when they were shot by Kroonstad farmer Pieter André Swart, 37, following a scuffle at Boskoppie Farm.
Police reported on Thursday that Swart was surprised by four suspects when he opened his door to the house at about 7:20am.
The four, according to the police, stabbed Swart in the neck and on the head in a bid to overpower him.
He managed to get his firearm and fired several shots.
“Three suspects were fatally wounded and another managed to flee the scene,” said an earlier police report.
Swart was immediately taken to hospital for medical treatment.
The fourth suspect was later arrested after the Rural Safety plan — which includes neighbouring farmers, the police and private security armed response teams — was activated.
Free State Agriculture (FSA) regional representative Boy Saaiman said in a statement vigilance and quick action by neighbouring farmers and the police saved Swart’s life.
He said Swart was attacked by the four men outside his house.
“The four men allegedly tried to break open a door to gain access to the house,” Saaiman is quoted as saying.
He said despite several stab wounds, Swart was able to get his firearm and fired several shots which hit three of the suspects.
FSA committee chairperson Jakkals le Roux said: “Farmers can no longer afford to be defenceless.”
He urged farmers to get involved in their nearest safety structures and empower themselves, their families and workers.