THE Fort Beaufort Farmers’ Association (FBFA) is appealing to all farmers in the Fort Beaufort district and elsewhere to be on the alert and to take utmost care especially in the upcoming festive season.
This comes after a farmer in the Doringkloof area near Fort Beaufort was brutally attacked on his farm two Mondays ago. The farmer was tied up in his home after which his attackers fled with two vehicles and also took his 16-year- old daughter hostage.
They drove around with her for more than an hour before abandoning one of the vehicles, leaving the helpless teenager unharmed. Police later found her. She was highly traumatised.
The second vehicle was also found near Adelaide with some firearms inside. Five men were arrested in connection with the attack.
Mid Karoo Express spoke to Dylan Fetting, chairperson of the farmers’ association, to get his views on the recent dramatic event. Fetting raised his concern about farm attacks becoming more common in our area.
“It is important that we are aware that it could happen to anyone at anytime. It is of utmost importance that farmers take all necessary measures to prevent them from becoming the next victim,” Fetting said.
Fetting, on behalf of the farmers’ association is requesting all farmers to ensure that:
- Alarm systems are working and practical.
- Security gates/burglar bars are in place.
- Curtains are closed at night so movement cannot be observed.
- Firearms are available to those who are able to use them.
- Radios are in working order and set to the emergency channel in evenings.
- Farmers have active plan with local cell.
- On arriving home, leave vehicle running with spouse behind wheel while you check the house.
- Do not be casual or try to be brave.
Warning indications:
- Strange vehicle in vicinity.
- Strange visitors at employees.
- People arriving at strange times asking for employment.
- Arriving home to strange noises or extra quietness.
- Dogs not coming to meet you.
Fetting expressed his appreciation to the police for their swift action and said that the association encourages everyone to be prepared at all times.
