Johannesburg - A farmer has been shot and killed on his Hluhluwe farm in KwaZulu-Natal, the provincial community safety department said on Wednesday.
Police said a group of armed suspects stormed the farm of Terrence Rizzato on Tuesday and forced his employees into a room before robbing them, spokesman Sipho Khumalo said in a statement.
“The suspects then proceeded to Rizzato’s residence on the farm, where they allegedly shot him on the chest. The suspects stole the victim's cash and valuables before fleeing the scene in his bakkie.”
Police were investigating, Khumalo said.
Transport, community safety and liaison MEC Willies Mchunu condemned the “callous” murder of Rizzato.
“I am deeply shocked by this murder. I find it to be totally abhorrent, senseless and inhumane. We condemn it and we will follow it until there is an arrest and conviction,” Mchunu said.
“I am assured that members of the police are working around the clock to ensure that those who are responsible for this cold-blooded murder and attack are brought to justice as soon as possible.”
Mchunu reiterated his concerns that the murder of farmers tended to undermine food security and business confidence in the province.
“Once again, we appeal to members of the provincial farming community, including the farmworkers, to work collectively to ensure safety and security in this important sector of our economy,” said Mchunu.
He also expressed his condolences to the family, colleagues and friends of Rizzato.
Sapa