Police hunt suspect after deadly Ottosdal farm attack

Parliament’s police committee chair Ian Cameron has condemned the killing of Hannetjie van Zyl, who died after an attack at Doornpan Farm outside Ottosdal.

Police are investigating murder after officers responded to a complaint of a possible farm attack on Monday evening, 5 October.

Van Zyl, 55, was attacked while opening a gate at the property.

Her husband rushed her towards hospital in Klerksdorp, but she later died from her injuries.

Cameron calls for action

Cameron said Van Zyl was attacked shortly after 19:00 when she stopped to open the gate.

He said information circulated by the local emergency network indicated she was struck over the head by her attacker or attackers before being rushed to hospital.

“A woman went home, stopped to open a farm gate, and was attacked and killed,” Cameron said.

He said rural communities should not be expected to accept violent crime as part of daily life.

Cameron called for stronger rural policing, better crime intelligence, properly resourced detectives and functioning rural safety structures.

“Those responsible for attacks like this must be identified, arrested and successfully prosecuted,” he said.

He also extended his condolences to Van Zyl’s family, friends and the farming community.

Cameron currently serves as chairperson of Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Police.

SAPS hunts attacker

SAPS confirmed that officers received a complaint of a possible farm attack and went to Doornpan Farm.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Kelebogile Morake said Van Zyl had already been transported to hospital by the time officers arrived.

Police said she was allegedly stabbed with an unknown object while trying to open the gate.

No suspects had been arrested.

“Police investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and to identify and apprehend the suspect or suspects,” Morake said.

Couple targeted before

The Van Zyls had reportedly faced violence at the same property before.

According to a report, Sarel and Hannetjie van Zyl were attacked on the farm in July 2020.

Three suspects were arrested following that incident.

Police have not indicated that the earlier attack is linked to Van Zyl’s murder.