THE Free State police have confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with the murder of former magistrate Piet Christiaan Bester, aged 63.
The arrests were facilitated through close cooperation between the local farming community and law enforcement agencies.
Bester’s body was discovered on Sunday, 12 January 2025, by a worker at his residence in the Glen district, on the outskirts of Bloemfontein, at approximately 09:00.
He was found lying in a pool of blood, having sustained multiple wounds.
The gruesome discovery shocked the community and sparked a swift police investigation.
In a statement, Free State police spokesperson Captain Loraine Earle praised the collaboration that led to the arrests.
“Thanks to the invaluable support of the farming community, we were able to apprehend two suspects,” she said.
“This breakthrough demonstrates the strength of community-police collaboration in addressing crime.”
The suspects, whose identities have not been disclosed, are expected to appear in court soon.
Police investigations are ongoing as authorities continue to piece together the circumstances surrounding the murder. – Staff Reporter