In January and February 2020, 50 Farm attacks took place and 7 farm murders occurred in February 2020. The oldest victim of a farm attack was 92. (see figure 1 & 2)
During these two months, Fridays were the most dangerous times with most (20%) of the attacks occurring on those days. 45% of attacks during the two months occurred at night between 18:00 and 24:00.
Comparatively, 12 farmers were killed in the same period in 2017, 13 in 2018, 7 in 2019 and 7 in 2020. (figure 3)
The number of attackers varied from 7 in 2017, 6 in 2018, 8 in 2019 and 8 and 2020. This makes it clear that farm attacks are carried out by gangs of on average 6 – 8 people. (figure 4)
The average age of victims over the four years is 58. (figure 5)
ToekomsVonk’s condolences goes out to every family that has lost a loved one as a result of farm murders. Farm attacks and murders are a reality and the government’s unwillingness to do anything about it is unacceptable.
Through our farm security project, ToekomsVonk aims to provide more than 50 farmers with safety equipment free of charge in 2020. This will consist of early warning equipment. Together we can help our farmers to be safe.
Read about more farm attacks here
South Africa Today – South Africa News
